Roadworks on hold as regional councils grapple with fuel prices
Regional roadworks and construction projects are being put on hold as Victorian councils tighten their budgets amid the international fuel crisis.

Regional roadworks and construction projects are being put on hold as Victorian councils tighten their budgets amid the international fuel crisis.

Broadcaster and former senator Derryn Hinch has died at 80. Remembered as provocative but courageous, he was a mentor to parliamentarians and a champion for victims of crime. Hinch was jailed multiple times for contempt of court, including naming a paedophile priest and airing details of a notorious killer's history.

Victoria's Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA) has suspended Gabow Family Day Care for 90 days, impacting over 40 residences. The regulator cited failures in child safety and educator qualifications, marking the first immediate suspension by VECRA since its establishment.

Former Reserve Bank economist Justin Wolfers warns Australia must examine the influence of money in politics, citing Donald Trump's alleged "selling of the presidency" and profits from his position. Wolfers also discussed immigration's role in innovation and AI's impact on productivity.

A new study analyzing the speeds of 258 spider species suggests Australia's brown huntsman may be one of the swiftest, capable of moving at 3.59 meters per second. Researchers found that medium-sized spiders with long legs tend to be the fastest.

NSW government and police have incurred nearly $500,000 in legal fees from cases lost against pro-Palestine groups, including unsuccessful defenses of protest laws deemed unconstitutional. These costs highlight a significant expenditure on legal battles over public assembly restrictions.

The Wallabies are set to face a familiar French pack in Brisbane, seeking a crucial win to avoid a sixth consecutive Test defeat, a 10-year low. With an untried flyhalf, Declan Meredith, due to debut, captain Harry Wilson emphasizes the need for victory over close losses.