A preliminary magnitude-6.1 earthquake has struck northern Japan early Monday, local time, the US Geological Survey has reported, but there are no immediate reports of fatalities or damage.
Isaac Thompson, 26, who allegedly has links to the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang, has been arrested by Northern Territory police in Darwin River after escaping custody on Sunday night. He is the third person linked to the gang to escape NT custody in the past month.
Reserve Bank chief economist Sarah Hunter stated that global supply shocks are becoming more frequent, prompting the RBA to invest in new economic models and research to adapt to this "new reality" and manage policy trade-offs more often.
China-linked investors are defying a federal government order to sell their shares in Australian heavy rare earths company Northern Minerals. The investors hold 17% of the company, which is developing the Browns Range project, crucial for military hardware and EVs. The treasurer cited national security concerns.
A proposed building and construction code in Queensland is causing confusion and could delay Olympic projects, unions warn. The CFMEU Commission of Inquiry's draft code for government projects over $2 million faces criticism for potentially conflicting with federal laws and banning negotiated ratios, impacting trainee programs amid skill shortages. While some industry bodies advocate for flexibility, unions vow to fight the changes.
A 56-year-old man suffered a minor leg burn when his pants caught fire in Byron Bay, reportedly due to a vape with a lithium-ion battery. Fire and Rescue NSW is renewing warnings about these batteries, citing 38 incidents this year involving small portable devices. Experts blame illicit imports for safety risks.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has halted two investigations into former commissioner Paul Brereton, citing significant costs and the fact he no longer holds the position. Inspector Gail Furness stated that no NACC corruption issue was involved and systemic issues have been addressed.
