Aged Care Fees Scrutiny: Opal Healthcare has refunded about $190,000 to nearly 350 residents after investigations found it charged for basic amenities like TVs and air-conditioning, prompting the federal government to tighten rules and clarify what providers can’t charge for. Elder Abuse in Regional Australia: A Monash-backed national study reports older adults in regional, rural and remote communities are most often abused by their child or partner, with financial abuse the most common harm and support access harder due to isolation. Welfare Health Inequality: AIHW research links income support receipt to far higher mortality, with welfare recipients facing more than nine times the death rate of those not on payments, including higher “deaths of despair.” Drug Harm Alert (ACT): The ACT Coroner has found a Canberra overdose death linked to the potent new psychoactive substance protonitazene, underscoring the need for holistic support for people with addiction and mental health issues. Police Bail Checks Settlement (NSW): Two mothers have settled a trespass case over alleged “distressing” NSW Police bail checks involving repeated visits and searches, raising questions about lawful conduct and community harm. Climate Risk to Property: A Climate Council report warns rising seas and coastal flooding could damage or wipe out 267,000+ properties by 2100, with costs projected at $855bn. Online Safety & Algorithms: Australia’s push to let users opt out of personalised social media feeds continues to draw political and diplomatic heat, with debate shifting toward platform accountability.