Good afternoon, and thanks for joining today’s broadcast. I am Gemma Grantand I’ll be blogging for the rest of the afternoon.
This is what has been making the news.
Nation signs biggest defense deal ever: The federal government has signed the country’s largest ever defense contract, worth about $2.5 billion, and struck a deal with Canada to import Australian radar technology to protect the Arctic.
Declining house prices accepted by the public: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s push to make housing more affordable for young Australians has wide support despite pushback against his tax reform. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has refused to answer questions about whether house prices should fall.
The second bird appears to have the H5N1 virus: The bird tested positive for the virus in a preliminary test for H5 bird flu, after the disease reached Australian shores last week. The results of the second verification test have not yet been returned.
WiseTech boss questioned about sex, alleged illegal trade: Federal police are investigating billionaire businessman Richard White on allegations that he used a woman’s immigration status and financial insecurity for sex and that he provided false information on a visa application.
Starmer moves to resign: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer looks set to resign after ministers asked him to make way for rival leader Andy Burnham in a transition period that could be announced as soon as Monday (London time).
