Australia: H5N1 bird flu lockdown, cocaine bust, auction rates drop
H5N1 bird flu hits WA farms; $800m cocaine seized

Poultry farms in Western Australia have entered lockdown after the deadly H5N1 bird flu strain was detected on the country's mainland, with tests confirming a second bird also carried the disease. The outbreak poses a significant threat to the poultry industry and has prompted immediate containment measures.

Political developments: Zali Steggall to launch new teal venture

Independent MP Zali Steggall is poised to launch a new political venture as soon as this week, following months of secret talks about the future of the teal movement. The move signals a potential reshaping of Australia's political landscape, as teal independents seek to consolidate their influence.

Record cocaine bust: $800 million seized

Police claim to have made Australia's biggest ever cocaine bust after finding $800 million worth of the drug buried under false flooring on a semi-rural property. The massive seizure underscores the scale of drug trafficking operations in the country and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat them.

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Auction clearance rates hit six-year low

Clearance rates in Australia's capital cities have fallen to a six-year low, with fewer than half of homes at auction finding buyers. This decline reflects a cooling housing market amid economic uncertainty and rising interest rates, impacting sellers and buyers alike.

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