Integrity & anti-corruption: Victoria’s IBAC is set to get stronger “follow-the-money” powers and wider public hearings to tackle corruption on Big Build projects, after years of lobbying and amid fallout over alleged infiltration of infrastructure supply chains. Federal politics & accountability: A debate is brewing over Queensland abortion access after Katter Party moves to block rules allowing trained nurses and midwives to prescribe MS-2 Step, with claims of insufficient parliamentary scrutiny. Tax, wages & cost of living: Treasurer Jim Chalmers says falling home auction clearance rates are driven by multiple factors, while backing a “substantial” minimum wage rise ahead of the Fair Work Commission’s decision. Parliamentary transparency: A push for a party of Independents is framed as a test of whether new structures make power more visible and accountable, not just a rebrand of old political habits. Public trust & governance risk: ASIO warns politicians and public servants not to discuss sensitive information in vehicles, after connected-car risks and Chinese EV uptake under the parliamentarian vehicle scheme. Elections & political pressure: One Nation has surged ahead of Labor in a national poll for the first time, driven by voter anger at recent budget measures, while Pauline Hanson signals she’s ready for prime minister if her health holds. Religious freedom: A new report says Christians face rising pressure and hostility in Australia, with calls for stronger protections for freedom of belief.