Farmers are pushing for stronger bait approval as mice numbers soar out of control in Western Australia, but stronger poisons are being rejected by the national chemical regulator.
Seven Hobart venues closed suddenly after their owner, Pub Banc Group and Hotel Banc Group, entered voluntary administration. Operators cite challenging trading conditions, rising costs, and changing consumer behavior as key factors, prompting calls for government support to revive the city's night-time economy.
A study found 1 in 25 Australian youth under 18 have been victims or know a victim of AI-assisted online sexual abuse. AI is used for abuse, particularly deepfakes, and also as a disclosure channel, with teens more likely to confide in AI chatbots than authorities.
A proposed $80 million creative precinct in Launceston, backed by state and council funding, is under scrutiny as reports suggest the developer, Chris Billing, may have been operating insolvent companies with debts exceeding $16 million at the time. Community members and councillors are questioning the due diligence performed by authorities.
Prince Harry and King Charles III had a dispute over accommodation at Buckingham Palace during Harry's UK visit. Palace claims Harry's team rejected the offer, while Harry's spokesperson says the offer was withdrawn after acceptance.
Germany is ending the practice of allowing employees to take sick leave on the first day of illness without a medical certificate. Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated the reform aims to address "extraordinarily high" sick day numbers, which have impacted economic productivity. The move has faced criticism from medical professionals and workplace experts.
Scientists have recorded bumblebees displaying 'liking' and 'disliking' responses with their mouthparts, similar to mammals. The study, published in PNAS, observed bees extending their glossa after tasting sugar and wiping their mouths when tasting salt or quinine, indicating an inner life.
