A leaked document reveals that the Coalition is planning to slash Australia's net overseas immigration levels to between 150,000 and 200,000 annually, effectively halving current numbers. The confidential policy roadmap also indicates that Angus Taylor is preparing for a possible early election.
In international news, Donald Trump has issued a fresh ultimatum to Iran, demanding acceptance of a new peace deal or facing intensified US bombing. Tehran is considering the terms but accuses the US of attempting to force surrender. Meanwhile, CNN founder Ted Turner has died at the age of 87, with tributes hailing him as an 'intrepid, fearless' leader who revolutionized television news.
Australia News
A cold front is expected to bring snow flurries to ski resorts in New South Wales and Victoria in the coming days, with Victoria and Tasmania also experiencing wintry conditions. In business, staff at logistics software company WiseTech have been waiting nearly three months to learn if they are among 2,000 employees to be cut due to AI advancements, with workers describing the wait as 'stressful' and 'ridiculous'. Our business editor offers advice on how mortgage holders can secure better deals by shopping around and negotiating with lenders for their 'edge of cliff' rate. Additionally, a group of 13 Australian women and children recently released from Syrian detention camps are expected to arrive in Australia today, with some women facing possible charges related to Islamic State links.
World News
The Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale was forced to close temporarily after activist group Pussy Riot staged a chaotic protest against Russia's inclusion in the art festival. Trump's new ultimatum to Iran came amid reports that China called for a comprehensive ceasefire and that the two sides were close to agreeing on an outline deal. Markets reacted positively, with oil prices falling below $100 and stocks rising. Pope Leo defended himself against Trump's recent attack, stating he has never supported nuclear weapons. Scientists believe a mega tsunami triggered by a rockslide in Alaska, which reached heights comparable to the Empire State Building, only missed cruise ships by hours. In a viral incident, a Mexico City nightclub charged Americans nearly $300 cover charge while citizens from other countries paid just $20.
In-Depth Analysis
Chief political correspondent Dan Jervis-Bardy discusses Labor's appetite for reform and the evolution of the party's left. Greg Jericho examines data that may persuade the Albanese government to curtail the use of family discretionary trusts to limit tax avoidance. Our reviewers select the best Australian books released this month, including a debut novel by Robert Forster, a new book by Miles Franklin-winner Amanda Lohrey, and nonfiction by journalists Antoun Issa and Stan Grant.
Sport
The collapse of Super Rugby's Moana Pasifika and rugby league's signing spree in Pacific heartlands spell trouble for Rugby Australia, according to Angus Fontaine. FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended World Cup ticket prices, citing US laws allowing resale at thousands above face value. Football fans anticipate the second leg of the Bayern vs PSG semi-final.
Media Roundup
Tony Abbott is poised to take the Liberal party presidency, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. The team of detectives that led the hunt for Dezi Freeman has been assigned to tackle Melbourne's nightlife crime spree, the Age reports. The police officer pictured hugging an Indigenous woman in Alice Springs spoke to NT News about the viral image. Working-class suburbs on city fringes are leading electric vehicle growth amid cost-of-living pressures, according to the Courier Mail.
Today's Events
Economists Luci Ellis, Jo Masters, and Aruna Sathanapally deliver the Women in Economics Network pre-budget address. Artists Khaled Sabsabi and Michael Dagostino unveil new artwork at the 61st Biennale. Vigils will be held in Canberra, Sydney, and Melbourne for Kumanjayi Little Baby.
