Vanuatu approves new agreement with Australia after fraught negotiations
The ABC can reveal that after months of difficult negotiations, the Nakamal Agreement has been approved by Vanuatu's cabinet but omits key limitations on China's influence.

The ABC can reveal that after months of difficult negotiations, the Nakamal Agreement has been approved by Vanuatu's cabinet but omits key limitations on China's influence.

Shadow Communications Minister Anne Webster defended Sarah Henderson's test call to Triple Zero, citing a need to ensure system functionality. Meanwhile, Andrew Hastie proposed a 'third way' on multiculturalism, rejecting both monocultural and multicultural extremes, emphasizing shared values and institutions.

NSW coach Laurie Daley has strongly criticized his detractors following his team's 30-12 State of Origin victory. Daley suggested "hidden agendas" were behind negative media coverage, questioning the motives of critics who "don't even come to a training session."

The US has launched new, larger strikes against Iran, targeting coastal radars, missile positions, and air defense systems. This escalation follows Iran's prior attacks on commercial shipping. Senator Bernie Sanders condemned the renewed conflict, calling it 'reckless' and costly. Iran has vowed to respond with 'action' rather than 'vulgarity'.

The US has launched new, larger strikes against Iran targeting coastal radars, missile positions, and air defense systems. Iran's foreign minister vowed a response with "action," while Senator Bernie Sanders criticized the escalation, calling it a "reckless war."

First Nations musicians in Australia are blending Indigenous knowledge and traditions with classical music, creating new forms of artistic expression. Five artists are highlighted for their unique contributions.

Extortionists sent parents of a missing West Australian man an AI-generated image and demanded $6,000 within 24 hours. The 23-year-old, who has autism, was later found safe. Experts warn AI is making scams more sophisticated.