Latest News Stories
Sorted by number of sources covering the story
Victorian royal commission into construction sector corruption announced
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has announced a royal commission into corruption in the state’s construction sector, with former South Australian Supreme Court Chief Justice Christopher Kourakis appointed to lead the inquiry. The commission, which will have a budget of $50 million and report by August 20 next year, will investigate allegations of criminal infiltration, grift, and violence on taxpayer-funded projects, including Labor’s Big Build. Its broad terms of reference cover the CFMEU, construction companies, labour hire firms, and the role of government. Carroll, who replaced Jacinta Allan last month, framed the inquiry as a top priority, while Allan had previously rejected calls for a royal commission. Legislation to strengthen Victoria’s anti-corruption watchdog, IBAC, will be introduced in the last sitting week in September, with additional parliamentary sittings expected before the November state election. The commission aims to uncover the truth behind misconduct, with a special prosecutor to be appointed to hold wrongdoers accountable. The inquiry follows years of reporting on corruption in the sector, including allegations of organised crime, drug use, and payments to underworld figures.
✓ Verified by 2+ sources
- Victorian Premier Ben Carroll announced a royal commission into corruption in Victoria's construction sector, with terms of reference released on August 20 this year
- Former South Australian Supreme Court Chief Justice Christopher Kourakis will lead the royal commission, retiring from his role last year after 13 years
- The royal commission will report back to the government by August 20 next year
Today
Natalie Harp’s role as Trump’s aide and controversy over Ossoff’s remarks
Natalie Harp, a 35-year-old cancer survivor and Trump aide, has become a focal point after Democratic senator Jon Ossoff’s remarks about her sparked controversy. Harp, who works as special assistant and executive assistant to the president, is known for her role as Trump’s ‘human printer,’ providing printed materials and drafting his Truth Social posts. She gained prominence in June 2019 after appearing on Fox News to discuss her bone cancer treatment, crediting Trump’s Right to Try Act for saving her life. Harp spoke at the 2020 Republican National Convention, thanking Trump publicly, though some reports question the timeline of her treatment. She worked for One America News Network from 2020 to 2022 before rejoining Trump’s campaign in 2024. Last month, she accompanied Trump on a secret flight from Turkey amid an alleged Iranian assassination threat, drawing further scrutiny. Ossoff’s comment about Trump prioritizing Harp over his duties ignited a White House backlash, with Trump and his team defending her loyalty while critics accused Ossoff of spreading innuendo. Harp’s brother Preston described her devotion to Trump as stemming from her upbringing and belief in American exceptionalism, though some details about her personal life remain disputed.
Erin Patterson appeals triple murder convictions and sentence in Victoria’s highest court
Erin Patterson, a 51-year-old woman convicted of murdering three relatives and attempting to murder a fourth by serving them poisoned beef Wellington in July 2023, is appealing her convictions and sentence in Victoria’s highest court. The appeal, which began on August 18, [DATE UNVERIFIED], focuses on seven grounds, including jury sequestration irregularities, unfair cross-examination, and the admissibility of evidence such as cell tower data and Facebook messages. Patterson’s legal team argues that jurors deliberating in the same hotel as police and prosecutors compromised the integrity of the trial, while prosecutors contend her 33-year non-parole period is inadequate given the gravity of her crimes. The Director of Public Prosecutions is separately appealing to remove any chance of parole, arguing the sentence does not reflect the severity of the murders. Patterson, who maintains her innocence, is watching the proceedings via video link from Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, while the sole surviving victim, Ian Wilkinson, attended the hearing. The three judges hearing the case—Justices Stephen McLeish, Lesley Taylor, and Peter Kidd—are expected to reserve their decision, with no timeline provided for a ruling.
Australia condemns Israel's decision not to investigate Zomi Frankcom's killing in Gaza
The articles cover Australia’s strong reaction to Israel’s decision not to pursue criminal proceedings against soldiers involved in the April 2024 airstrike that killed Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom and six others in Gaza. The IDF admitted serious procedural failures and mistaken identification led to the attack, but concluded no criminal misconduct occurred. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed outrage, calling the timing of the announcement on World Humanitarian Day particularly insulting, and summoned Israel’s ambassador to convey the government’s dissatisfaction. Greens leader Larissa Waters and other politicians called for sanctions and an end to Australia’s arms trade with Israel, while former human rights commissioner Chris Sidoti criticized the IDF’s investigation process as inadequate. The ABC also highlighted concerns over Roblox’s safety measures for 1.7 million Australian children, with the company given three months to comply with new regulations or face penalties. The Guardian additionally reported on Fiona Brown’s $1.48 million settlement against the Commonwealth and Australia’s approaching $1 trillion debt.
Australia-China crackdown on $100m+ illegal tobacco smuggling syndicate
Australian and Chinese authorities conducted a joint operation to dismantle a major illegal tobacco smuggling syndicate, seizing over $92 million worth of illicit cigarettes and loose-leaf tobacco between January and May. The operation involved intercepting 91 of 100+ containers, arresting 60 people in China, and disrupting a network smuggling Southeast Asian-manufactured tobacco via Shanghai. Intelligence sharing between the two countries was critical, with Chinese authorities providing key targeting information. The illicit tobacco market in Australia now accounts for 75% of consumption, up from 12% in 2017, leading to significant revenue losses for the government. While some officials advocate for cutting the tobacco excise by 75% to undermine the black market, others argue enforcement efforts should be strengthened instead. The operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational organised crime.
Mass bird deaths linked to H5 bird flu in Australia’s South Australia and Tasmania
Two Australian states, South Australia and Tasmania, are investigating mass bird deaths linked to H5 bird flu, with more than 1,000 greater crested terns dying in three separate events and 28 little penguin deaths reported on King Island. Both sources confirm the deaths were detected through aerial surveillance on Wednesday, with samples collected for testing and the birds removed on Thursday to limit transmission. The Guardian notes the strain arrived on the mainland in June, while ABC specifies the virus was first detected in Tasmania last Thursday in a brown skua. South Australia’s premier described the events as a significant escalation, with no mammal deaths reported so far. The Guardian highlights concerns for endangered species like Australian sea lions, while ABC mentions Victoria’s vaccination efforts for little penguins on Phillip Island. Both agree the situation is deeply concerning, with ongoing surveillance and testing critical to understanding the outbreak’s spread.
Fair Work Commission orders sacked worker to pay $1230 for AI-generated unfair dismissal claim
A sacked Aldi store assistant was ordered to pay $1230 in legal costs after using AI to file an unfair dismissal claim that ignored the six-month minimum employment requirement. The worker was dismissed three days before reaching the eligibility threshold, but his AI-generated materials repeatedly cited an incorrect date. Fair Work Commission deputy president Michael Easton warned the worker multiple times via email before the hearing that his case was hopeless and could result in costs, but the worker continued with the claim. The case was decided on Wednesday, with the worker discontinuing his application only after the hearing began. The ruling marks a potential pitfall for workers relying on AI in Fair Work claims, contrasting with a recent victory for a Macquarie University worker who successfully used AI to win permanent part-time status last week. Easton emphasized that the worker could have avoided the costs by discontinuing the claim earlier, as the flaw in the case was preventable.
Alessandro Circati's $33m transfer from Parma to Benfica
Alessandro Circati, a 22-year-old Socceroos player, has completed a high-profile transfer from Parma to Benfica for a reported 20m euros ($33m). He signed a five-year contract through to 2031, joining the Portuguese giants after a standout season in Serie A where he helped Parma finish 12th. Circati played a key role in Parma's 2023/24 Serie B title triumph and secured survival over the following 2 seasons, making 96 appearances and scoring 2 goals. He has 17 international appearances and 2 goals for the Socceroos, including playing in all 4 of their World Cup matches. Both sources confirm the financial details, contract length, and Circati's contributions to Parma, though minor phrasing differences exist in describing his World Cup appearances.
Sydney Swans player conduct scandal and club values under scrutiny
Two identical opinion pieces by former Sydney Swans player Brandon Jack criticize the club's handling of a scandal involving players' choices that allegedly prioritized a man's football career over a woman's wellbeing. The articles highlight a disconnect between the club's stated values—such as condemning abuse and disrespect toward women—and the actions of its players and leadership. The Sydney Swans' chief executive and captain have issued vague responses, with the captain admitting he lacked facts to comment. The author argues the club's focus remains on minimizing PR damage rather than addressing the issue substantively, questioning whether the club truly values its public image or the wellbeing of victims. Both pieces emphasize the club's history of profiting from its cultural influence while failing to uphold its stated principles during crises.
Matt Comyn's marriage breakdown and CBA share sales amid government reforms
Matt Comyn, CEO of Commonwealth Bank, is navigating a personal and professional storm as his marriage to Lucy Comyn has broken down, confirmed by the bank last Tuesday. Both TheAge and SMH report the separation, noting Comyn’s pay rose to $9.1 million in the last financial year amid government reforms, including housing investor tax concessions announced in the May budget. SMH adds that Comyn offloaded $8.4 million in CBA shares last week, disclosed on August 14, in two tranches totaling 50,097 shares sold at $168.18 and $168.80 per share, with the second tranche jointly held with Lucy. The sales align with his annual share disposals since 2022, though the bank declined to comment on the separation’s influence. Meanwhile, Comyn remains a key figure in business and political circles, with close ties to Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, including attendance at Felix Lee’s Point Piper fundraiser. SMH also delves into broader political maneuvering, such as lobbyists like Jannette Cotterell positioning themselves to influence One Nation until at least 2028, and Superhero’s meetings with Albanese and Coalition MPs, while TheAge focuses solely on Comyn’s personal and professional challenges.
Queen Camilla discusses keeping King Charles’s cancer diagnosis private before public announcement
Queen Camilla publicly shared for the first time how difficult it was to keep King Charles’s cancer diagnosis private before its announcement in February 2024. She revealed she nearly disclosed the news during a visit to a Maggie’s cancer support centre on 31 January 2024, just days before Buckingham Palace confirmed the diagnosis on 5 February. The charity, marking its 30th anniversary in 2024, operates 27 centres across the UK, providing free emotional and practical support. Camilla’s seven-minute film, released on Maggie’s and the royal family’s YouTube channels, highlighted the importance of such services for patients and their families. While both sources agree on the timeline of the diagnosis and announcement, the Guardian adds details about Charles’s prostate treatment and Camilla’s internal struggle, whereas ABC emphasizes the impact of Charles’s openness on others and his scaled-back treatment mentioned last December.
Prince Harry and Meghan plan to return to Britain with their children
Prince Harry and Meghan, along with their children Prince Archie seven and Princess Lilibet five, are planning to move back to Britain this month after living in the US since 2020. Both sources confirm the family will relocate to a private residence outside London, with the children starting school in September. King Charles was informed of the move on Sunday, and the family last visited the UK together in July, marking a thaw in relations. The Guardian notes ongoing security concerns, including a legal challenge in May 2025, while ABC highlights King Charles’s cancer treatment revealed in February 2024 and his improved condition last December. Contradictions exist over the timeline of their departure and the family’s previous UK visits, with the Guardian emphasizing security issues and the ABC focusing on the 2022 funeral as their last joint appearance.
FIFA president Infantino faces growing opposition amid World Cup controversies
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing mounting pressure as multiple vice-presidents and national football federations withdraw their support following the dismissal of chief operating officer Kevin Lamour. Lamour’s exit, which came after he criticized Infantino’s plan to sell a stake in the World Cup commercial rights, was described as the final straw by Sandor Csanyi, a FIFA vice-president and council member. Infantino is up for re-election in March and is seeking a fourth term until 2031. While three confederations (UEFA, AFC, CONCACAF) have withdrawn support, CAF and Conmebol remain aligned with him. The Guardian notes controversial decisions at this year’s World Cup, including outsourcing competitions, while ABC highlights formal withdrawals by Israel and Wales earlier this month. Infantino’s leadership is now under scrutiny, with calls for a democratic review by FIFA’s 211-member associations at next year’s elections.
Yesterday
Roblox faces Australian child safety audits and enforcement actions
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has secured a court-enforceable undertaking from Roblox to improve child safety protections after tests revealed adults could still contact children without parental consent. Both sources confirm Roblox has three months to implement changes, including making children’s accounts private by default, improving reporting systems, and hiring an independent auditor to assess safety measures. The Guardian notes that 1.7 million Australian children use Roblox, while the ABC highlights that Roblox previously made nine commitments in September to address safety concerns. The ABC also mentions Roblox was put 'on notice' earlier this year, a detail not repeated in the Guardian. Both agree Roblox has made some progress, but eSafety warns of potential court action if the company fails to comply.
Ukraine's sacked defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov challenges Zelenskyy with calls for wartime elections
Ukraine’s former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, 35, has emerged as a vocal critic of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after being sacked in July following six months in the role. His dismissal, linked to a falling out with military commander Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi, triggered protests in Kyiv that have continued for more than a month, including a 2,000-person march on Sunday. Fedorov released a nine-minute video on Tuesday calling for wartime elections and accusing Zelenskyy’s administration of systemic corruption and poor governance, arguing democracy cannot be 'held hostage by Russia.' Zelenskyy responded by nominating Yevhen Khmara, the acting defence minister, for permanent appointment, with parliamentary confirmation expected on Wednesday. Polling at the turn of the month suggests Fedorov could challenge Zelenskyy in a runoff election, with 13.1% support in the first round, trailing only Zelenskyy and Valerii Zaluzhnyi. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy fired his deputy chief of staff, Iryna Mudra, on Wednesday after a corruption raid, and his five-year term ended in May 2024 without an election due to wartime conditions.
House House's new game *Big Walk* and its development, release, and reception
House House, the Melbourne studio behind the globally successful *Untitled Goose Game*, released *Big Walk*, a cooperative game centered on walking, communication, and puzzles set in Wilsons Promontory. The game achieved over 1 million downloads in its first week, reflecting its immediate popularity. Development spanned six years, beginning during COVID lockdowns, with the team using proximity voice chat to stay connected. The game’s realistic Australian bush environment includes 80-100 native plant models and was inspired by real-world research trips. Players navigate puzzles by communicating, often through creative gestures when separated, creating a social and immersive experience. The team’s intimate development process and emotional connection to the game’s setting contributed to its unique design, blending realism with playful, expressive avatars.
Viral Kingston biscuit and peaches dessert causes nationwide supermarket shortages
A viral dessert recipe combining Kingston biscuits and canned peaches has caused nationwide supermarket shortages of Arnott’s Kingston biscuits. Former MasterChef contestant Ash Davey created the simple two-step recipe, which involves baking the ingredients at 180C fan-forced for about 25 minutes. The trend took off on TikTok, sparking millions of views and endless variations, such as Lemon Crisps with pears or Delta Creams with canned cherries. Experts attribute its popularity to nostalgia, simplicity, and the novelty of unexpected ingredient combinations. Arnott’s marketing director noted the recipe’s affordability and ease of recreation, while a creative agency co-founder highlighted its 'surprise and delight' factor. Despite the 'two-ingredient' tag, the recipe relies on pre-made staples containing over 20 ingredients combined, saving time and effort.
Disability advocate removed from Virgin Australia flight over wheelchair motor stowage issue
Shane Hryhorec, a 41-year-old Adelaide-based disability advocate, was removed from a Virgin Australia flight from Sydney to Adelaide on Monday after crew instructed him to store his portable wheelchair motor under the seat, despite no space being available. Hryhorec had previously taken three flights with Virgin Australia that week and three prior flights last week without issue, including storing the motor in overhead lockers. The incident was captured in a viral video, leading to an apology from Virgin Australia on Wednesday afternoon. Both sources confirm Hryhorec’s service dog’s location prevented relocation, and the airline is reviewing its policies. The Guardian notes Hryhorec’s prior complaints to the Australian Human Rights Commission and broader systemic issues, while the ABC highlights the immediate passenger count and the airline’s ongoing review.
NSW judge overturns antisemitism label in anti-Israel graffiti case, finds miscarriage of justice
The NSW Supreme Court ruled in August 2026 that Mohommed Farhat’s anti-Israel graffiti in Sydney’s east was not antisemitic but a political act, overturning earlier convictions that labeled his actions as hate crimes. Farhat, then 22, pleaded guilty in late 2024 to 15 offences, including spray-painting 'Fuk Israel' and setting a vehicle alight, after being recruited by an unknown person for money and drugs. The magistrate initially sentenced him to 20 months in jail, with a non-parole period of 10 months, and revoked his parole, citing a terror risk. However, Justice Desmond Fagan found the state misapplied the IHRA definition of antisemitism, calling it 'detached from reality,' and dismissed the state’s request for a one-year extended supervision order with 55 conditions. Both sources agree Farhat was not ideologically motivated but a 'vandal for hire,' and the court criticized police and prosecutors for failing to disclose evidence that could have reduced his sentence. The ruling highlights broader concerns about conflating criticism of Israel with antisemitism, especially after the December 2024 Bondi beach terror attack that killed 15 people.
Nick Kyrgios suspended after cocaine test in Mallorca, Spain
Nick Kyrgios, a 31-year-old Australian tennis player, has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for cocaine during an ATP 250 event in Mallorca, Spain, on 22 June 2026. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) confirmed the suspension on 4 August 2026, following laboratory confirmation of benzoylecgonine on 17 July 2026. Kyrgios, who reached a career-high ranking of 13 in 2016 and lost the 2022 Wimbledon final to Novak Djokovic, has apologized for his actions and plans to step away from public life for 28 days. Both sources agree on the timeline of events, including the positive test, suspension date, and Kyrgios's intention to focus on rehabilitation. The Guardian notes Kyrgios has not played in a Grand Slam since the 2025 Australian Open, while the ABC highlights his recent Wimbledon appearance in July 2026, which he described as likely his last. Kyrgios has acknowledged struggles with mental health and injuries, which he believes contributed to his decision.