Twelve whales have been tangled in shark nets off Queensland’s coast so far this year. Here’s why

Queensland Premier Crisafulli is firmly advocating for the expansion of shark nets, emphasizing that human safety takes precedence over whale protection. This stance has sparked controversy, especially after a mother and baby whale were found trapped in existing nets. The debate highlights the ongoing conflict between wildlife conservation and public safety, raising questions about the effectiveness and ethics of shark netting in protecting both marine life and human interests.

Clive Palmer, the Queensland mining magnate, is facing a setback after an international tribunal dismissed his claim of being a 'foreign investor,' leading to a $13 million penalty. This decision not only impacts Palmer's financial standing but also raises questions about foreign investment regulations in Australia. As he plans to challenge the ruling, the outcome could have significant implications for the mining industry and foreign investors looking to enter the Australian market.

The campaign to free Old Faithful, a 4.2-meter crocodile made famous by Steve Irwin, is gaining momentum as Queensland rangers face pressure from lawyers and conservationists. After being removed from his natural habitat, advocates argue that Old Faithful deserves to return to the river where he belongs. This story highlights the ongoing struggle for wildlife conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats, reminding us of the legacy of Steve Irwin and his dedication to protecting these majestic creatures.

Afghanistan is facing a nationwide telecom shutdown as the Taliban has cut off internet and phone links by severing fibre-optic connections. This disruption is significant as it affects communication and access to information for millions of people, highlighting the challenges faced by the country under Taliban rule.

France is experiencing a rise in annual inflation as summer ends, a trend that mirrors similar increases in Spain and Belgium. This uptick in inflation is significant as it may influence the European Central Bank's decisions regarding interest rates, potentially affecting economic stability across the region.

Gordon Lyons, a minister, has acknowledged the rising racial tensions linked to the ongoing housing shortage. He expressed understanding of the concerns people have regarding this issue, highlighting the urgency of addressing both housing availability and the social implications it carries. This situation matters because it not only affects individuals seeking homes but also has broader societal impacts, potentially leading to increased division and unrest.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning that Israel will continue its military operations in Gaza if Hamas does not accept the peace plan proposed by former President Trump. This plan aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict that has persisted for nearly two years. The situation remains tense as Qatari and Egyptian mediators have engaged with Hamas, but their response to the peace proposal is still unclear. This development is crucial as it could determine the future of peace in the region and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

A tragic drone strike in Ukraine's Sumy region has resulted in the deaths of a family of four, including two young children. This incident highlights the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in the region, as tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. The attack comes amid reports from Moscow claiming to have thwarted a significant Ukrainian drone assault in Volgograd, underscoring the complex and dangerous situation in the area.

In a recent update, Michele Bullock, the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), stated that there is little she can do personally to influence house prices as the RBA maintains the interest rate at 3.6%. This news is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges in the housing market and the limitations of monetary policy in addressing affordability issues. Additionally, there are calls for more accountability from corporate leaders, such as the CEO of Optus, indicating a broader conversation about corporate responsibility in Australia.