ABC News Top Stories
Listen to the latest big and breaking stories across the day.
Episodes
Higher than expected inflation raises interest rate rise fears | ABC News Top Stories
Economists are warning the latest inflation figures have increased the risk of an interest rate hike by the Reserve Bank. Headline inflation was at 3.5 per cent in the year to July while underlying inflation which the Reserve Bank board watches closely remained at 3.6 per cent for the third straight month.Australia could face a diplomatic backlash from the UK if it pushes ahead w
Dolly Parton: a life of music, fashion and philanthropy
Country music legend Dolly Parton has died aged 80.She leaves behind a legacy of songwriting, film, fashion and philanthropy.
Are domestic data centres worth the cost?
Australia's being pitched as a potential global powerhouse for data centres.These are the massive facilities that store, process and move the data behind everything from cloud computing to artificial intelligence.But as billions of dollars flow into new projects, a fierce debate is emerging over who benefits, and who bears the cost.
Why are young adults worried home ownership isn't possible
New research shows the Australian dream of buying a home feels out of reach for the majority of young adults.The challenges facing this group means the path to financial independence is becoming longer.And that impacts older generations too.
Why ARIA won't ban all AI in music
Musicians in Australia will soon have to prove whether their songs have been created with artificial intelligence.From Friday, wholly AI-created music will be excluded from Australia's official music charts, unless it's substantially human-made, doesn't raise manipulation concerns, or uses legal AI services.How will it work?
The 'costly' WA GST deal Albanese just vowed to keep
The Federal Government is openly criticising the work of the Productivity Commission as debate continues over how revenue from the Goods and Services Tax is shared.In an interim report, the independent commission says the current deal, struck in 2018, gives Western Australia too much of the money generated by the GST and it should be rewritten.But Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
What's behind Australia's largest outbreak of diphtheria
Diphtheria is spreading in Australia at a record rate.More than 500 cases have been recorded, primarily in the Northern Territory and Western Australia, as well as in South Australia and Queensland.That's the largest outbreak of the disease since records began.
Bird flu now detected in mammals. Are humans at risk?
Australia has recorded its first H5N1 bird flu in mammals. So what does it mean for other wildlife, and how worried should we be about human cases?
How Putin's invasion put democracy on hold in Ukraine
Ukraine's President Volodomyr Zelenskyy has rejected calls to hold a wartime election, warning it would split the nation in two.These are first comments on the issue since the former Defence Minister called for a poll.Elections are suspended in Ukraine due to martial law which was imposed when Russia invaded.
How costume creativity can make Book Week affordable
It's that time of year again. Children's Book Week is officially underway across the country.A cavalcade of kids have been arriving at schools dressed as their favourite literary characters.But what about the parents? For them, does Book Week just mean extra stress? And already busy schedules further crowded by late nights perfecting costumes, not to mention the additional hit to
Will AI data centre rules be imposed on the states?
The federal government is intending to push ahead with new national energy and water rules for AI data centres. And despite opposition from some states and territories, it seems the government's willing to go over their heads and force the changes.
Australian mammal dies from bird flu... what does it mean for wildlife?
The H5 strain of bird flu has been detected in a mammal in Australia for the first time.
Why Canada walked away from US trade talks
Tensions between the US and Canada are intensifying, with both sides imposing tit-for-tat tariffs.
What we know now about the Sydney Swans scandal
A lawyer representing two women involved in the Sydney Swans scandal says his clients intend to seek damages for "pain and suffering" following the incident.ABC reporting suggests there's an allegation that one player touched a woman without her consent.How has the scandal unfolded?
The alleged plot to steal Ukraine's defence secrets
The Australian Federal Police have charged a dual Russian-Australian citizen with foreign interference, accusing the man of attempting to send secrets to Russia.It's alleged he infiltrated the Ukrainian military with ulterior motives.It's the first time that someone has been charged since Australia introduced tougher foreign interference laws in 2018.
Can AI help ease traffic congestion?
A Queensland council is hoping a trial of traffic lights equipped with artificial intelligence will help ease congestion.In an Australian first Moreton Bay council north of Brisbane will install the AI powered light at one intersection.
What's prompting the gear shift from petrol to electric vehicles?
Electric vehicles are no longer a niche choice in Australia.More drivers than ever are swapping petrol for battery power, with recent data showing almost half of all new vehicles sold in the first half of the year were either electric or hybrid.And for the first time, battery-electric vehicles edged ahead of petrol hybrids.So, are we reaching a tipping point?
How missing hiker Lily Hooper was mistakenly reported alive
NSW Police have apologised "unreservedly" after the family of missing bushwalker Lily Hooper were mistakenly told she had been found alive.The 18 year old's disappearance sparked an eight-day search in the New South Wales Southern Highlands.Hopes were raised for a short time due to a miscommunication, but a body believed to be that of Ms Hooper was located in bushland.
What Harry and Meghan will do back in Britain
The British Royals who left their day jobs in the UK and embarked on a new life in the United States are going home.Prince Harry and Meghan are set to arrive within two weeks, as Harry hopes to spend more time with his father, the King.But reconciling a fractured relationship with his brother, William, the heir to the throne, might be a step too far.
Why isn't Israel pursuing criminal charges over the killing of Zomi Frankcom?
There's been widespread anger over Israel's decision not to pursue criminal charges against soldiers involved in the deaths of seven humanitarian workers, including Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom.Foreign Minister Penny Wong says she's outraged by the decision and she's expressed Australia's concerns directly with the Israeli ambassador.So who was Zomi Frankcom and how was sh
Sydney Swans in chaos as investigation continues
Five Sydney Swans players remain suspended for the rest of the 2026 AFL season for breaching the club's behavioural standards.Swans Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, Riley Bice and James Jordon are also linked to a police investigation into sexual assault allegations at East Melbourne's Pullman Hotel on Monday morning.The players are yet to be formally interviewed or charge
What's Roblox and why is the regulator cracking down on it?
Australia's eSafety Commissioner will be able to take the gaming platform to court if it finds Roblox is not honouring its commitments to keep Australian children safe.The court-enforceable undertaking is the latest example of eSafety using its enforcement powers against online platforms.
What Sydney Swans players did to deserve a ban
Five Sydney Swans players have now been stood down for the rest of the season for breaching behavioural standards over their late night drinking and bringing women back to their hotel.At the same time, an investigation by Victoria police continues into a report of sexual assault at the hotel where the Swans were staying.It is not suggested that any of the banned players are being
New details emerge in Hayden Panettiere's shock death
There's been intense speculation surrounding the shock death of US actor Hayden Panettiere on Sunday.Her on-off boyfriend Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach were at the South Carolina apartment where she died suddenly aged 36, according to a police report.Who was Hayden Panettiere and what is known about her death?
Why is Meta on trial in California?
Social media giant Meta is on trial in California in a case that could force the company to make fundamental changes to Instagram and Facebook.
Mushroom killer Erin Patterson's appeal explained
Mushroom murderer Erin Patterson's appeal against her triple murder conviction will be heard on Wednesday August 19 and Thursday August 20.Patterson is serving life in prison after she killed family members using poisonous death cap mushrooms hidden in a beef wellington lunch.She was sentenced to a non-parole period of 33 years in September last year.Why does she insist there's b
Are the gambling ad laws reform or capitulation?
After weeks of negotiations, the government has struck a deal with the Coalition to pass its long awaited gambling ad laws.The amendments include a centralised system for opting out of online advertising, and some restrictions on inducements.The deal has been criticised by anti-gambling advocates, the crossbench, and some Coalition MPs for falling short of the recommendations of
No arrests after Sydney Swans incident in Melbourne
Victoria Police is continuing its investigation into an alleged sexual assault at the hotel the Sydney Swans AFL players stayed in over the weekend.Several of the club's players have been linked to the investigation, but there is still no confirmation they're directly involved.
Tupak Shakur murder trial begins in Las Vegas
It's been almost 30 years since American rapper, Tupac Shakur was gunned down in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas.After decades of swirling conspiracies a murder trial is now underway. Opening statements have been delivered with the prosecution arguing the 1996 killing was 'an act of revenge' but the accused is maintaining his innocence.
How to tackle Australia's illegal tobacco trade?
The illegal tobacco trade in Australia is booming after years of steep increases in the cost of legal cigarettes.Australia's had a tobacco excise since federation, but over the past 15 years it's more than quadrupled, making cigarettes $50 or more a packet.Now there are calls to slash the excise in a bid to stamp out organised crime linked to the illicit tobacco trade.
Could superannuation help with cost-of-living pressures?
One Nation says Australians should have greater access to their retirement savings while they're still working.And that's reignited debate over whether the current rules are too restrictive or not.So how does super currently work?
Sydney Swans involved in 'alleged incident'
The Sydney Swans AFL club has confirmed several players were involved in an "alleged incident" in Melbourne.The club issued a statement at the same time that Victoria Police released details of an investigation into a report of a sexual assault at an East Melbourne hotel.Details are thin, but here's what we know.
Trump slams 'hostile' US-South Korea military drills
US President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea, saying the nation had declined to help denuclearise Iran.He also brought up his good relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.It's another case of Trump taking aim at a strong ally of the United States.
How do deepfake scams work and how can you avoid them?
Artificial intelligence is making investment scams more convincing than ever.Fake videos featuring well-known Australians are flooding social media feeds, costing people hundreds of millions of dollars.So how do these scams work, and how can you avoid them?
Is Australia at risk of a measles outbreak?
Australia eliminated measles more than a decade ago but that doesn't mean it can't come back.New research suggests around 1.7 million people may not be fully protected against the highly infectious disease.So who's most at risk?
How will the NSW gun buyback work?
NSW will become the first state to sign up to the federal government's gun buyback scheme, announced following the December 14 Bondi Beach terror attack.
Why did Luigi Mangione make shock confession in court?
Luigi Mangione has admitted to shooting United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City in 2024, and pleaded guilty to federal stalking charges, resulting in death. He's also told why he tracked down and shot the executive, in one of America’s most high profile criminal cases.
The predicted impacts of bird flu on coastal communities
Australia's wildlife authorities and coastal communities remain on high alert as the deadly H5 strain of bird flu continues its advance across the country.
Will 'east-coast clowns' kill WA's special GST deal?
Get ready for an almighty battle between Western Australia and the productivity commission and the states who think it's had it too good for too long.The lucrative deal on how the proceeds of the GST are distributed has come under new scrutiny with a report declaring it has led to perverse outcomes that favour WA.How does the West benefit under the deal?almighty
Nigel Farage celebrates victory over Count Binface
Far-right populist politician Nigel Farage has won one of the most unusual by-elections in recent history in the UK.He was up against more than 30 independent candidates, among them a comedian known as Count Binface.But his victory party may be cut short as scrutiny continues over donations.
Should AI be taking notes about your health?
Artificial intelligence tools are listening to many people's medical appointments, but they're not always producing accurate summaries.One patient has described how a letter from a specialist to her GP included a false suggestion that she was taking illegal drugs. A so-called AI scribe had been used by the doctor.New research by a privacy watchdog has raised serious concerns abou
Third Sydney Airport take-off incident in less than three weeks
Safety authorities are investigating a third runway incident at Sydney airport in as many weeks.
How former military lawyer David McBride ended up in jail
David McBride is a former military lawyer who shared classified defence documents with a journalist.The material led to an ABC investigation that revealed allegations of soldiers being involved in illegal killings, even though that wasn't McBride's intention.Now, after spending years in jail, he's been freed on parole.What happened to him has raised questions about the plight of
Now the Tomago aluminium smelter is saved, how will we power it?
A bailout of the country's largest aluminium smelter will cost taxpayers $2.5 billion, with the New South Wales and federal governments to split the bill down the middle.The Tomago aluminium plant is in the New South Wales Hunter region and is currently Australia's largest electricity user.So, will there be enough renewable power to keep it online into the future at an affordable
Will Mounjaro ever be added to the PBS?
A new generation of weight loss medication has been up-ending the industry and Australians are trying to get their hands on the drugs.But they're expensive and the Australian Government has been locked in complicated negotiations with the manufacturer of Mounjaro to have it added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Should prisoners keep their right to 'open air'?
A bill set to pass the Victorian parliament this week would give prison guards the power to deny inmates their one hour a day of outdoor time.It's currently a legal right that was affirmed in a court ruling in January.But the government wants to limit that right, in part to protect itself from future lawsuits.That's got human rights lawyers and Victoria's representative body for
The furore over Albanese and Japanese melons explained
The Prime Minister continues to be attacked by his political opponents over comments he made about the Japanese prime minister and a gift of melons. Anthony Albanese spoke about the fruit on a comedy podcast last month, while making hand gestures in front of his chest.He's since denied he was being disrespectful to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.What is the furore all abo
Why was Trump sneaked out of Air Force One in a catering truck?
It sounds like something out of a blockbuster movie: the US president, an assassination threat, a decoy plane…and a catering truck. But it’s no Hollywood plot. Some US new outlets are reporting that last month, an elaborate ruse took place in July when Donald Trump was in Ankara for a NATO summit.
Why the RBA left interest rates on hold
The Reserve Bank has decided to leave interest rates on hold today.But the governor is warning Inflation is still too high and if it doesn't come down another rate rise is inevitable.
Why rapists' names have been kept secret
The Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has announced plans to abolish suppression orders protecting the identities of convicted rapists. The moves come two weeks after he took over as leader and as his Labor government struggles in the polls ahead of the November state election.Legal experts say it's a good start, but doing away with suppression orders during trials is needed for bett
Why Israel rejected Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan
US President Donald Trump has been claiming a major breakthrough for Gaza after his Board of Peace brokered a deal for Hamas to hand over its weapons.But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Hamas's proposed plan for disarming is "unacceptable", rejecting the Trump administration's plans to end fighting in the Palestinian territory.What was proposed and what went wrong?
What is the Census and what happens if you don’t do it?
After five years, it’s come back around again: Tuesday the 11th of August is Census night. But what’s the Census for, and what happens if you don't do it?
Why are car insurances getting so expensive?
If you thought your car insurance was getting more expensive, you're not alone.Premiums soared above inflation in the 2024-25 financial year and the corporate regulator ASIC has put some car insurance companies on notice for failing to explain why costs are rising.While the insurance sector says there's valid reasons for the trend, ASIC's investigation reveals there's still room
Why is SA holding a royal commission into AI?
South Australia will hold a royal commission into artificial intelligence.It will be the first inquiry into AI at such a high level in Australia and is expected to run for nine months.But with SA's inquiry into social media leading to a ban for under 16s, could this inquiry also lead to national policy?
Sydney Airport's had two near misses on the runway within a fortnight
Two planes narrowly avoided crashing into each other at Sydney Airport on the weekend.It was less than a fortnight after another near miss at Australia's busiest airport.Now, the federal transport minister has called in the head of Airservices Australia for an emergency meeting over staffing pressures and growing safety concerns.
Who killed Tupac? Three decades later, we may get some answers
New details about the 1996 killing of Tupac Shakur could be revealed in a murder trial set to begin in Las Vegas this weekDuane "Keffe D" Davis, who police accuse of orchestrating the rap icon's murder, has pleaded not guilty.The case is one of hip hop's most enduring mysteries and Davis is the only person to have faced charges over Shakur's death.
Australians urged to check who'll inherit their superannuation
Super Consumers research shows that about 15.7 million people do not have a binding death benefit nomination, meaning their super fund can decide who inherits their accumulated super and any insurance when they die. Not all funds offer binding death benefit nominations, so Australians are being urged to check.The federal government has been consulting on whether to introduce mand
What do we know about US ambassador to Australia David Brat?
The new United States ambassador to Australia is former Republican congressman David Brat.Both sides of federal politics have welcomed his confirmation.But outside political circles, some commentators have been more critical.
Which animals are at risk amid the global bird flu outbreak?
There are now more than 200 confirmed cases of the deadly H5N1 bird flu across Australia.It's spread to five states, with South Australia recording the highest number of cases.And testing has confirmed Australia's first mass wildlife death event linked to bird flu on an island off the state's south-east coast.So, what do we know about this strain of bird flu?
Kmart 'smart glasses' spark privacy panic
Kmart's $89 camera glasses, similar to the more expensive Meta version, promise to provide the ability to capture photos and videos hands-free. Campaigners against smart glasses are urging the Australian government to implement harsher laws on non-consensual filming.
Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan sign defence pact
Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan have signed a joint defence agreement to boost their collective security, amid continuing tensions between Iran and the United States. What will it mean for the region?
Jake Kolodjashnij identified as player who signed concussion waiver
Jake Kolodjashnij has been confirmed as the Geelong player who struck a deal with the club to assume legal responsibility for any future head injuries he may suffer while playing.The 30-year-old Kolodjashnij has suffered with head injuries over his career, but has been a regular in the Geelong side over the last few seasons.It's kicked off another widespread discussion of how con
Why is Abdul El-Sayed's win in Michigan getting so much attention?
In the US state of Michigan, a race between two Democratic senator hopefuls is making headlines.The contest was won by Abdul El-Sayed with a razor thin margin of less than one per cent.His victory is being seen as a major win for the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, which is challenging the party's establishment figures.
Are more civilians being targeted in Ukraine war?
Ukraine is struggling to cope with the rate of Russian ballistic missiles.President Volodomyrr Zelenskyy says a massive wave of Russian strikes on Kyiv has killed at least 17 and injured dozens more.He says lives could have been saved with more missile interceptors and it marks a rise in the numbers of civilians killed in the war.
Why Elon Musk's rocket hit the moon
A huge piece of a SpaceX rocket, floating in space since last year, is believed to have smashed into the moon at high speed.It's another reminder of the growing mass of space junk that humans have left either in orbit or shooting off into space.So why did this rocket end up on a collision course with the moon?
Is the hype around Australia's athletics justified?
The Commonwealth games have wrapped up this week in Glasgow and once again Australia has done really well.Our athletes finished right on top of the medal tally, taking a whopping 171 medals in total.The Aussies were an absolute force in the pool, but Australia's success in track and field disciplines has got a lot of attention.
Jetstar to charge for carry-on luggage
Heading off for a weekend will come with an extra cost if you're flying Jetstar... unless you are a really light packer.The budget airline 's announced it'll scrap its free 7 kilogram carry on allowance from February. And travellers aren't happy.So, how is Jetstar justifying the change?
Senate inquiry hears explosive gambling allegations
A Senate inquiry into the government's proposed changes to gambling laws has uncovered explosive allegations about the gambling industry.
Concern over use of unregulated peptides in young men
More young Australian men are using unregulated peptides, blinded by the promise of a ripped physique and not understanding the damage to their long-term health.
Why Trump's buying Japanese currency
The US and Japan have confirmed that they jointly intervened last week to halt a slide in the value of the Japanese currency.The Yen had dropped fto a new 40-year low when the US and Japan went on a buying spree designed to stop it from falling further.But why would the United States get involved to help the economy of a trading partner?
How scrutiny drove Ariana Grande from the spotlight
Ariana Grande has announced she is taking a break after her current tour. The three-time Grammy winner has been the subject of immense public scrutiny over her physical appearance and health.
Research finds new clues about protecting virtues of breastmilk
Scientists have discovered clues into how a protein in breastmilk protects against respiratory infections in babies.
What bird flu 'mass mortality' means for wildlife
It's increasingly looking like the H5 N1 strain of bird flu is here to stay in Australia after more than 80 birds were found either dead or sick on South Australia's south-east coast.The federal government has allocated more funding to try and manage the outbreak.But wildlife rescuers are worried sick animals are being left to die.
How Alan Jones ended up charged with sexual assault
The closely watched trial of Alan Jones is now underway with the veteran broadcaster accused of sexual assault.He dies all the charges and it's a judge alone trial, with evidence now being heard about alleged offences over a 17 year period.How did the once powerful media figure end up in court?
When will property prices bounce back?
House prices are down across Australia and even previously resilient property markets are now in decline too.Analysts point to consecutive interest rate hikes, and government tax changes behind the weakness in the property market.But will the downturn last?
Why is the price of fuel going up again?
With the government’s fuel excise discount gone and the war in the middle east dragging on, how much pain should motorists be bracing for?
Why did 50,000 migrants attempt to swim to Ceuta?
The EU will hold an emergency meeting about a mass influx of migrants in the Spanish North African territory of Ceuta. Authorities say more than 50,000 people crossed into Ceuta in one day, though most have returned to Morocco. At least 67 people died attempting to make the crossing.
Infantino under pressure after World Cup sell-off plans scrapped
The plan to sell off soccer's World Cup was controversial... and turned out to be shortlived.After an intense backlash, FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has scrapped his plans to sell a stake in the World Cup - and other events - to private investors.In a statement, he said that after listening carefully to different views, it's become clear the project has created divisions that are n
Anthropic's Claude AI hacking spree revealed
The two leading AI companies in the world, Anthropic and OpenAI, have revealed breaches where their models broke out of tests and hacked into other companies.In the latest case Claude models started roaming the internet. It's a warning about what these advanced models are capable of if there's any lapse in cyber security safeguards.What do we know about why this is happening?
Has Trump's 'Board of Peace' really disarmed Hamas in Gaza?
Gaza's ruling militant group Hamas has agreed to lay down its arms under the US president's peace plan.Donald Trump has announced on social media that his so-called 'Board of Peace' has reached a deal for the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza.ABC Americas editor John Lyons explains why it may just happen.
