Australia's recognition of Palestine is drawing strong reactions from a US diplomat and Hamas, sparking both praise for PM Albanese's "Wave Hill moment" and criticism for being "too little, too late", while also featuring analysis of US political developments.
Concerns over failed working with children checks are prompting calls for a national scheme and police intervention regarding childcare issues, alongside discussions on Treasury document leaks ahead of an economic summit and debates on net migration targets.
The Australian economy is seeing consumer spending growth driven by sporting events, a fall in the jobless rate, and potential gains from cutting red tape, while major companies like Telstra and Origin Energy report profits amidst global stock market pauses due to rate cut expectations and Air Canada faces a work stoppage.
Australia faces record-high consumption of illicit drugs, while Indigenous communities are pursuing clean energy initiatives, and World War II heroes are being honored, alongside a remembrance of Australia's first teen idol Col Joye and acclaim for veteran author Annie Proulx.
Beijing has opened its first World Humanoid Robot Games, featuring robots showcasing diverse skills in a competition involving international teams.