Karl Stefanovic, Channel Nine's highest-paid presenter, is expected to leave the network after he interviewed UK far-right activist Tommy Robinson on his podcast. Nine Entertainment is reportedly set to sever ties with Stefanovic, who co-hosts the Today show, following the controversial appearance.
Political developments: New teal party launched
Independent MPs Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender are launching a new political party called Community Strong Australia, aiming to provide a centrist alternative for voters. However, other teal independents have not yet joined the party.
Iran 'threat' and tax attack
An Australian citizen working as a senior intelligence officer for Iran allegedly orchestrated a firebombing in Bondi, according to Australia's top spy. Meanwhile, fund manager Geoff Wilson deleted an AI-generated video he reposted from a rightwing nationalist account, which criticized the government's tax changes. Greg Jericho notes in his column that the reforms are already having an effect.
Weather records and US politics
The UK broke its all-time temperature record for June, reaching 35.7C in Charlwood, Surrey. France recorded its hottest day ever for the second day running as a heatwave sweeps Europe. In the US, former Donald Trump loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene has broken ties with the Republican party, and President Trump shelved plans to sign a bipartisan bill aimed at lowering housing costs.
Maternity scandal and World Cup updates
An inquiry into the NHS's biggest maternity scandal revealed that more than 500 mothers and babies came to harm or died as a result of inadequate care in Nottingham. In sports, the Socceroos face Paraguay tomorrow, with Tony Popovic facing a selection dilemma over whether to recall Nestory Irankunda. The World Cup continues with matches including Bosnia and Herzegovina v Qatar and Switzerland v Canada.
Electricity prices and possum bao
Electricity prices are expected to fall about 10% from 1 July, but not all households will see the benefit, according to Petra Stock. Dark Mofo, Tasmania's mid-winter festival, is offering brushtail bao filled with slow-cooked wild Tasmanian possum, continuing its tradition of discomfort.
Sport and media roundup
India's 15-year-old cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will require his own changing room for safeguarding reasons on his first international tour. The International Olympic Committee has broken with 130 years of tradition by deciding to pay athletes. Ben Stokes says he has apologised to his teammates after Joe Root was criticised as stand-in captain. Gina Rinehart has bought a block of beach apartments in Perth and named them after Ben Roberts-Smith, WAtoday reports.
