Media & Competition Policy: Australia passed the News Bargaining Incentive, forcing major tech platforms to pay a 2.5% levy on Australian advertising revenue unless they strike deals with local publishers; large-spend offsets (150% for big outlets, 200% for small/medium) and a requirement to reach agreements with at least eight publishers are meant to push payments for news content. Public Finance: Australia’s national debt crossed $1 trillion for the first time, with Treasury flagging rising interest costs that could squeeze future budgets. Workforce & Economic Signals: ABS data showed unemployment rising to 4.5% in July as employment fell, with weakness concentrated in part-time work. Animal Health & Biosecurity: Bird flu escalated after mass deaths of crested terns in South Australia and penguins in Tasmania, prompting moves toward vaccination for captive birds. Foreign Affairs & Accountability: Australia condemned Israel’s decision not to pursue criminal proceedings over the Gaza killing of aid worker Zomi Frankcom, summoning the Israeli ambassador and demanding release of strike material. Aged Care Governance: The Commonwealth Home Support Program was extended to 2029, with consultation underway on keeping it as a standalone program rather than folding it into Support at Home.