Other funding boosts for the ACT revealed in the budget papers include $50 million to duplicate Drake Brockman Drive in West Belconnen, aimed at servicing the area's growing population, and almost $10 million for the National Film and Sound Archive.
Two brothers, Connor and Liam Harnett, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates' Court charged with the murder of their stepfather, Andre Szep. DNA and forensic testing are expected to take up to three months, with investigators still seeking missing evidence. The alleged assault occurred in front of parents and students at Strathaird Primary School.
Hundreds of BHP workers at Port Hedland are poised to strike on July 16th, potentially impacting $120 million in daily revenue. Talks over pay and conditions failed, leading unions to give notice for the industrial action, the most significant in the WA mining industry in 25 years.
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers approved the $100 million+ sale of Tasmania's largest farm, Rushy Lagoon, to UK's Gresham House for a new pine plantation. The decision faced criticism from farmers and a senator over transparency and market distortion concerns.
A Melbourne businessman faces trial for rape and sexual assault, accused of attacking a former personal assistant at his home in 2023 after a night of drinking and cocaine. The defense claims the woman's credibility is a major issue and alleges false accusations.
Bondi Beach terror attack victim Arsen Ostrovsky is outraged at YouTube for keeping a video on its platform that questioned his injuries and suggested the attack was a "false flag". YouTube policy manager Rachel Lord stated the video did not breach hate speech policies, sparking criticism from Jewish community leaders.
Victoria Police have arrested seven men in connection with an alleged fraud investigation at the Greater Shepparton City Council and a local business. The council referred the allegations internally, leading to the arrests of men aged 36-55, who were later released pending further inquiries.
