The federal budget has been overshadowed by One Nation's influence, with Treasurer Jim Chalmers acknowledging that economic anxieties are pushing Australians toward rightwing populist parties. The government has conceded that many are locked out of the housing market, a problem worsening under Labor.
Budget and Housing Reforms
Speaking hours before delivering his fifth budget, Chalmers said the housing market and tax system are not working for many Australians. The government is seeking to address negative gearing and tax reforms, partly in response to Pauline Hanson's party winning a historic byelection in Farrer, its first lower house seat in 30 years. This victory has alerted Labor to a populist wave similar to trends in the US, UK, and Europe.
Other Top News
- A Canberra teenager has been charged over an alleged terror attack plot.
- A difficult mission is underway to repatriate Australian hantavirus cruise passengers en route to long quarantine in Perth.
- Manslaughter charges have been dropped against a man accused of killing Melbourne teen Isla Bell and hiding her body in a fridge.
- The mayor of a California city has resigned over charges of being a foreign agent of China.
- French President Macron attends an Africa summit seeking allies and a foreign policy less tied to France's colonial past.
- Australian sprint star Gout Gout features on 60 Minutes in the US.
Dingo Documentary Calls for Coexistence
Once widespread across Australia, dingoes have been systematically eradicated through shooting, trapping, poisoning, and fencing, including the 5,614km dingo fence through Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia. A new documentary urges governments to shift from eradication to solutions benefiting both farmers and dingoes.
Soldier Dies in Training Incident
Defence Minister Richard Marles paid tribute to Special Air Service Regiment warrant officer class 2 Lachlan Muddle, who died during a parachute training accident. Marles said the ADF lost one of its finest, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the tragic accident a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who defend the nation.
Kyle and Jackie O Courtroom Drama
The former radio duo, Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson, are battling in court over the termination of their $100m contracts. Media correspondent Amanda Meade discusses the courtroom atmosphere and whether the case signals the end of big-name radio stars.
Before Bed: Transgender Festival in India
The annual Koovagam festival in Tamil Nadu, described as a trans-Barbie world, is rooted in an ancient poem. Five transgender attendees share what the event means to them amid a controversial change to India's gender recognition law that scrapped self-identification rights.
Daily word game: Today's starter word is BRIN. Play Wordiply.
