Stories from Australia

A new poll indicates more than half of Australians believe 'Welcome to Country' ceremonies have become divisive. The report notes that ceremonies are being perceived as overdone, potentially losing their original meaning.

New data indicates rental affordability in Australia has reached a critical low for low-income earners. A snapshot of nearly 49,000 listings showed only one rental nationwide was affordable for individuals on jobseeker payments.

The Royal Commissioner will defer substantive findings regarding the actions of National Intelligence and Law Enforcement Agencies prior to the Bondi incident. This decision comes despite the terror threat level being raised to probable.

Huang Yingxian stated that Australia is committed to promoting island development and maintaining mutual respect. Huang Yingxian stated that Australia seeks to resolve differences through candid communication and increased understanding.

The Department of Education is working with police regarding a primary school in Dingley Village after a teacher was charged. A 33-year-old man from Bentley is alleged to have installed a camera at Kingswood Primary.

A new National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Report found the illicit drugs market in New South Wales is valued at more than $14 billion annually. The report also found that almost four tonnes of cocaine are consumed in the state every year.

The South Australian government took control of the North Adelaide public golf course this week. The move follows rumors that LIV Golf is no longer involved with the site. Peter Malinakis has reportedly faced questions from the South Australian Premier regarding this development. The project aims to allow the course to host the Live Golf Tournament from 2028 to 2031. Both the Liberal and Green parties have questioned the necessity of the project given the cost to taxpayers. Reporter Isabella Carbone reported on the potential impact of the $45 million expenditure. This development follows a period of globally demand for battery products. The decision comes despite doubts regarding the future of the live golf tournament at the venue. The course was expected to host LivGolf events starting in 2028.

Commissioner Virginia Bell is expected to hand down an interim report regarding the Pondo Beach terrorist attack today. The report is expected to focus on addressing flaws in the nation's counter-terrorism systems. The findings follow the launch of a Royal Commission into the incident.

City Power's Tom Langstaff stated the network is under pressure due to rapid growth in electrification. Customers are drawing increasing amounts of power through the network, according to Langstaff.

The power grid in parts of Melbourne is struggling to support the transition from gas to electric heating. Resident Marie Slacco reported that her split system heating failed during a cold snap, prompting her to consider returning to gas.