Stories from Australia

Megan Quinn will become the first woman to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Defence in Canberra. She replaces Greg Moriarty, who is transitioning to a role involving the construction of SSN Orca submarines with the AE system. The appointment was described as a surprise following months of speculation regarding potential candidates. Quinn currently serves as the secretary of the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. While she lacks an extensive background in defense policy, her experience includes industry policy and international relations work. She previously co-authored a white paper regarding Australia's role in the Asian century over a decade ago. This agency will oversee large and expensive procurements that the department has previously struggled to deliver on time and within budget. The move is part of ongoing changes underway at the Department of Defence.

Janice Patterson told the Press Club that claiming Australian submarine programs are on track is a disservice to the public. She highlighted potential delays in submarine shipbuilding and the possible need for long-range strike capabilities. These capabilities would be necessary for the Australian Defence Force if a gap occurs before nuclear-powered submarines arrive. The warnings follow similar concerns raised by the United States regarding shipbuilding delays. Contingencies are required for potential capability gaps caused by delays in Collins class life of type extensions and potential slippage in US nuclear-propelled submarine deliveries. Alternative capabilities must be available to ensure regional security should conflict arise before Virginia class submarines are delivered.

Charlotte McInnes has given evidence in a high-stakes defamation case against Ms. Wilson. McInnes alleges she was defamed on social media regarding claims that she was sexually harassed by film producer Amanda Ghost. The case involves allegations that Wilson retracted claims to further her career. During cross-examination, barrister Sue Crusanto, SC, questioned Ms. Wilson regarding the mistreatment of women on the set of the film 'Thank You'. Wilson returned to the witness box for a second day of cross-examination at the federal court. During questioning by barrister Sue Crisantu, Wilson denied claims that McInnes fabricated stories to create division between the lead actor and producer. Producer Charlotte McKinnon took the stand on the final day of a defamation trial in Sydney. The posts reportedly suggested McKinnon recanted a sexual harassment complaint to advance her career.

Drug manufacturers have withdrawn from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) process for GLP1 medication Mounjaro, according to Medicines Australia. The manufacturer cited several reasons for the withdrawal, including the federal government's low price offer for the drug. The PBS advisory committee had previously recommended subsidizing Mounjaro for certain adults with type 2 diabetes. Medicines Australia CEO Liz Dussama stated that the listing process takes too long. Hundreds of thousands of Australians with diabetes may be affected by the decision. The withdrawal follows protracted negotiations with the federal government regarding pricing. Manufacturers specifically noted that the price the Australian government was willing to pay for Mounjaro was too low.

Kieran Boe James Hedges appeared in Perth Magistrates Court regarding allegations that he threatened to blow up the international terminal at Perth Airport last Wednesday. Hedges reportedly stated he wanted to seek asylum in Vietnam but lacked a passport. He has been charged with further offences following the incident. A 57-year-old man, identified as Mr. Hedges, was arrested in the Perth CBD and charged with making a threat to a Commonwealth aerodrome. Hedges allegedly left a bag on a bin at the airport, which required assessment by the Western Australia Police Bomb Squad. He faces additional charges of engaging in conduct interpreted as a threat of unlawful aviation interference and entering a security-controlled area. Bail was refused, and the defendant is scheduled to return to court in June.

IT company Integris has completed its first international acquisition by purchasing an Australian Managed Service Provider (MSP). The move marks the company's expansion into the Australian market.

The Australian Peace and Security Forum has called for a public inquiry into AUKUS funding. Albanese noted overwhelming support from the British government, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Prime Minister described the agreement as being "full steam ahead" per a quote from President Trump. The defense comes amid concerns that geopolitical circumstances have changed significantly over the pact's long timeframe, making it a high-risk proposition. Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull stated he supports a parliamentary inquiry into the AUKUS defense pact. He suggested Australia should halt overseas funding for the project while a review is conducted. Turnbull noted Australia has committed billions of dollars to the United Kingdom and the United States.

TikTok owner ByteDance will incur fees that can be reduced by establishing commercial deals with Australian news publishers. If no commercial agreement is reached, the company must pay a charge calculated as a proportion of its revenue in the country. These funds will be distributed back to the news media sector to support journalists. The Australian government is currently seeking feedback on the distribution methods for these funds. No new details provided in current feed. Communications Minister Annika Wells stated that tech giants are now incentivized to follow new rules regarding news funding. Under the new deal, companies will pay significantly less in funding if they choose to make deals with news organizations. The minister noted she has held discussions with stakeholders regarding these incentives.

Swimmer Andy Donaldson completed a 55 kilometre non-stop swim along the Ord River in Western Australia's Kimberley region. The swim lasted more than 11 hours. Donaldson's feat follows a 2024 record by Simone Blazer, who completed the swim in 16 hours and 13 minutes. The river is known to be populated with thousands of freshwater crocodiles. Donaldson swam for more than 11 hours to finish the course. Fremantle swimmer Simone Blazer previously completed the swim in 2024 with a time of 16 hours and 13 minutes. Blazer told social media followers the water was smooth and silky during the challenge. A local skipper provided support from a boat during the swim. Donaldson stated the adventure aimed to engage with the local community and inspire residents. She expressed feeling exhausted but filled with pride and joy at the finish line.

Thousands of rail workers in Brisbane have commenced industrial action following wage disputes with Queensland Rail. The Rail Tram and Bus Union is involved in negotiations to resolve the dispute. There are concerns that the labor action could jeopardize Brisbane's ability to host the NRL's showpiece event. The event is estimated to provide a $40 million economic injection to the city. The strike occurs as pay negotiations with the state government continue. No specific duration or immediate impact on service schedules was provided.