China–NZ Diplomatic Fallout: Foreign Minister Penny Wong says Australia will “make representations” after Beijing banned four New Zealand MPs from entering China for a year over a Taiwan trip, while Winston Peters argues the visits are consistent with NZ’s One China policy. Modern Slavery & Trade: The US has proposed new forced-labour tariffs on 60 economies, including Australia, and Canberra rejects the claim as “unwarranted” and inconsistent with the free-trade deal. Tax Overhaul in Parliament: Australia’s lower house passed the biggest tax changes in decades, curbing negative gearing and scrapping a capital gains discount, but the Senate fight is now the battleground with Coalition and Greens pressing for longer scrutiny. AI in Government: The PSA warns against replacing public servants with automated welfare decisions after a law was rushed through under urgency, calling for AI to augment—not replace—human judgement. Tech Giants vs News Payments: Meta calls Australia’s draft “pay for news” laws “grossly unfair,” arguing the levy would harm a diverse news sector. Governance & Services in Nauru: UNDP-backed NAIG-II Phase II launches to strengthen Nauru’s institutions, including Parliament and justice services, with Australia and New Zealand support. Five Eyes Cybersecurity: A joint Five Eyes bulletin warns Chinese military intelligence is using LinkedIn and job platforms to lure people with access to sensitive information.