Australia news live: PM says new home buyers scheme will see ‘minimal’ increase in prices; Ley sets KPIs for frontbenchers

Australian film producers and experts have criticized President Trump's proposal to impose tariffs on foreign-made films, labeling it as bizarre and impractical. They argue that the film industry is inherently global, with Australia deeply connected to Hollywood. This proposal could disrupt international collaborations and hinder the growth of the Australian film sector, raising concerns about its feasibility and potential negative impact on creativity and commerce.

Telstra is poised to gain more customers following Optus's recent triple-zero outage, as consumer advocates highlight that many users are reluctant to switch providers. With a strong regional network and a shift away from competing solely on price, Telstra may capitalize on this situation to increase its customer base and potentially raise prices. This development is significant as it reflects changing dynamics in the Australian telecommunications market, where reliability is becoming a key factor for consumers.

Australia's environmental laws, particularly the EPBC Act, are under scrutiny following the approval of the North West Shelf extension by Woodside. Critics argue that instead of safeguarding the environment, these laws primarily facilitate development, raising concerns about their effectiveness in protecting natural and cultural heritage. This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation, making it a crucial issue for both policymakers and the public.

A recent poll shows that Australians are increasingly supportive of the Albanese government's ambitious 2035 emissions reduction target, reflecting a growing concern for climate change. Interestingly, the poll also reveals that support for the One Nation party has doubled to 13% since the last federal election, indicating a shift in the political landscape. This matters because it highlights the balancing act between environmental goals and the rising popularity of parties with different agendas, which could influence future policies and elections.

A recent investigation by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has revealed that 20 sunscreens may not meet their SPF claims due to a common base formulation. This finding raises concerns about consumer safety and the reliability of sun protection products, especially as summer approaches. The TGA also noted that some testing laboratories are more dependable than others, highlighting the need for stricter regulations in the sunscreen industry to ensure that products provide the protection they promise.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is currently deliberating on its next interest rate cut, with economists suggesting that the decision hinges more on timing than on the necessity of a cut itself. While there are indications of rising prices, the political implications of this decision seem less contentious than in the past. This matters because the RBA's actions can significantly influence the economy, affecting everything from consumer spending to inflation rates, and understanding their approach helps us gauge the economic landscape ahead.

Michele Bullock recently expressed her concerns about rising house prices in Australia, stating that there is little she can do personally to address the issue. This statement highlights the ongoing challenges many Australians face in the housing market, where affordability continues to be a pressing concern. Bullock's comments come at a time when discussions around housing policies and economic strategies are crucial for the well-being of citizens, making it an important topic for both policymakers and the public.

After a troubling series of triple-zero outages, Minister Anika Wells has expressed that the Optus CEO has significant challenges ahead. She has urged the parent company to bring in an external reviewer to help restore public trust in emergency services. This situation is critical as it directly impacts the safety and confidence of Australians relying on these emergency call systems, highlighting the need for accountability and improvement in telecommunications.

A federal class action has been filed against Australia's community development program, which is accused of racial discrimination. The program mandates that participants in remote areas, predominantly Indigenous Australians, work more hours than those in urban settings. This disparity highlights systemic inequalities and raises concerns about fairness in government policies. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for how such programs are structured and implemented in the future.

A recent Pentagon review has reportedly confirmed that the Aukus submarines pact is secure, providing reassurance to both the Australian Prime Minister and Defence Minister. This inquiry, which began in June, is still ongoing, but the confidence expressed by Australian officials highlights the importance of this defense agreement in strengthening security ties between the US and Australia. The successful continuation of this pact is crucial for regional stability and military collaboration.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed optimism regarding Trump's new 20-point peace plan for Gaza, particularly praising its commitment to excluding Hamas from future governance. This plan is significant as it aims to bring stability to a region long plagued by conflict, and Albanese's support signals a potential shift in international cooperation towards achieving peace in the Middle East.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers recently celebrated a budget outcome that was not as dire as anticipated, but the reality is that Australia's debt continues to rise, posing significant challenges. This situation is particularly concerning for workers who are left to shoulder the burden of economic repair. The budget's perceived victory lap may overlook the structural issues that remain, highlighting the need for a more sustainable approach to fiscal management.

In a significant move, Australia's opposition leader has set new key performance indicators (KPIs) for her frontbench team, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards of behavior. This decision comes in the wake of a landmark strip-search case that has raised questions about current laws and practices. Experts are now calling for legal reforms to address these issues, highlighting the ongoing debate about accountability and transparency in government. This development is crucial as it reflects the opposition's commitment to ethical governance and could influence future legislative changes.

The Senate's recent rejection of the Democrats' stopgap funding resolution, with a vote of 47-53, has intensified the looming threat of a government shutdown, the first in nearly seven years. As both parties exchange blame, the urgency for a bipartisan agreement grows, highlighting the challenges Congress faces in maintaining government operations. This situation matters because a shutdown could disrupt essential services and impact millions of Americans, underscoring the critical need for effective governance.

A tragic building collapse in southeast Indonesia has left many students trapped under rubble during an afternoon prayer session. As rescuers work tirelessly to save those caught beneath the debris, the urgency of the situation highlights the dangers associated with construction sites, especially in areas where safety regulations may be overlooked. This incident not only raises concerns about the immediate safety of the students but also calls for a broader discussion on construction safety standards in the region.

Kylian Mbappé's stunning hat-trick propelled Real Madrid to a commanding 5-0 victory over Kairat Almaty in the Champions League, marking a triumphant return after their recent La Liga setback. This performance not only showcases Mbappé's incredible talent but also revitalizes Real Madrid's campaign in Europe, highlighting their resilience and determination to reclaim their status as a top contender.

Regina's Mâmawéyatitân Centre hosted a meaningful event for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, where individuals from diverse backgrounds came together to reflect on the history of residential schools in Canada. This gathering is significant as it fosters understanding and healing among communities, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging past injustices to build a more inclusive future.

The US government is on the brink of its first shutdown in nearly seven years, as Democrats and Republicans remain at an impasse over health care and spending issues. This standoff could lead to hundreds of thousands of federal workers facing furloughs, highlighting the serious implications of political gridlock. It's a critical moment that underscores the challenges of bipartisan cooperation in addressing essential government functions.