Stories from Australia

New data indicates that rental affordability in Australia has reached a critical low for low-income earners. A snapshot of nearly 49,000 listings revealed that only one rental nationwide was considered affordable for an individual on Jobseeker payments.

The Commission of Virginia Bell is expected to present a report to the Governor-General today outlining key recommendations for urgent action. Further information is available on the Royal Commission and departmental websites. Officials stated that security requirements necessitated receiving the information by the end of April rather than waiting for the full commission process to conclude. The report was received on Thursday, April 30, 2026. The Australian government has resolved through the National Security Committee to implement all recommendations from the interim report released by the Royal Commission. The report addressed findings regarding general national security settings. The recommendations aim to further enhance the safety of Australians, according to the source. The government has indicated a desire to move forward with these measures.

Angus Aitken, CEO of Aitken Mount Capital, has donated $1 million to the One Nation party. Aitken described the party as the "party of common sense" during his announcement.

Police reported that two vehicles used in a ram raid in Bondi were stolen from the same street last Tuesday. The theft of both vehicles suggests potential pre-planning by the suspects. A large crime scene has been established at the location.

Anglicare Australia warned that low-income earners are being excluded from the housing market due to a lack of affordable rental options. A national snapshot of nearly 49,000 listings revealed only one rental was affordable for individuals on Jobseeker payments.

An international report surveying 34 countries found Australia ranks second in methamphetamine consumption. Nearly 27 tonnes of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and MDMA were consumed within the year. The report details the scale of illicit drug use across the surveyed nations. This represents a 21% increase compared to the previous year. The report noted large increases specifically in methamphetamine and heroin use.

The Australian government confirmed on April 28 a progressive tax targeting major IT companies that utilize news media content. Australian authorities are implementing a tax on technology companies to ensure control over the digital economy and fair revenue sharing. The measure involves a 2.25% tax on companies operating within the country. The policy is being framed as a regulatory stance on the digital economy rather than a simple tax adjustment. The move aims to address revenue earned in Australia that is currently taxed in other jurisdictions, such as the United States, through offshore methods. The source noted that tech giants generate over $10 billion in annual revenue through these channels. This action may serve as a model for other nations seeking to capture tax revenue from digital services.

Six West Australian police officers have been sanctioned following the death of an Aboriginal man in custody. Ryan was transferred to prison on remand before his death, according to the report. Ryan was arrested in Calgoole and charged with aggravated assault in March last year.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration is currently reviewing adverse effects associated with the medication Armor Force. More than 1,300 reports of reactions to the medication have been documented. The review follows a video by dermatologist Dr.

Public hearings focusing on the lived experiences of antisemitism are scheduled to begin next week. Commissioner Bell stated the inquiry is expected to run for several months. Commissioner Virginia Bell is presiding over the proceedings. The increase in hostility in Australia appears to mirror trends in other Western countries. The source stated these spikes seem clearly linked to events occurring in the Middle East. It was noted that Middle East events can quickly prompt displays of hostility in Australia. Stephanie Schwartz, president of the board of Mount Sinai College, testified about the school being targeted. A grandfather provided evidence detailing the treatment of his two granddaughters, aged 13 and 14, whose substitute English teacher performed Hitler salutes in their classroom. The principal took action following a complaint.