Australia politics live: senator claims TikTok staff member bullied his office about under-16s ban; Victoria announces major housing overhaul

Finland's defense minister has emphasized the importance of defeating Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a crucial step in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region. He warned that the global democratic alliance, including countries like Australia, must remain resolute in this fight, as it has significant implications for restraining China's influence. This statement highlights the interconnectedness of global security issues and the need for democratic nations to unite against authoritarian threats.

Australia's largest aluminium smelter, Tomago, is facing potential closure as Rio Tinto declares it 'not commercially viable' due to soaring power prices. This situation is critical as it not only threatens jobs for employees but also raises concerns about the future of the aluminium industry in Australia. The ongoing consultation with workers highlights the urgency of finding a sustainable solution, making this a significant issue for both the local economy and the broader market.

A recent report reveals that at least 174 racehorses have died from injuries sustained during racing or training in Australia over the past year, marking the highest number recorded by the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses in a decade. This alarming statistic raises significant concerns about the safety and welfare of racehorses in the industry, prompting calls for stricter regulations and better protective measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

George Ford is set to take the fly-half position for England's upcoming match against Australia at Twickenham, following a stellar summer tour where he led the team to victories over Argentina and the USA. His tactical skills and experience make him a strong choice for the role, which could significantly impact England's performance in the autumn internationals. Fans are eager to see how Ford's leadership will shape the game.

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is facing criticism from the Inspector General of Taxation, Ruth Owen, for employing debt collectors against individuals who are compliant with their tax obligations. Owen has reported a rising number of complaints regarding the ATO's practices, highlighting the need for the agency to be more empathetic towards taxpayers' situations. This issue is significant as it raises concerns about the fairness and effectiveness of tax collection methods, potentially impacting public trust in the ATO and the broader tax system.

Michele Bullock, the governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), has addressed concerns regarding rising joblessness, suggesting that fears may be overstated. While she acknowledges an uptick in inflation, she hints that interest rates may remain stable for now. This is significant as it reflects the RBA's cautious approach to economic stability amidst fluctuating job markets and inflation rates, impacting both consumers and businesses in Australia.

Barnaby Joyce's recent decision to stay out of the Nationals party room highlights ongoing tensions within the Coalition, as members continue to air their grievances over issues like net zero policies. This situation is significant as it reflects deeper divisions that could impact the party's unity and effectiveness in addressing key national issues. The lack of urgency to resolve these conflicts suggests that the Nationals are struggling to find common ground, which may affect their political strategy moving forward.

The ongoing debate over environmental protection reforms in Australia has intensified, with the Coalition and Greens facing criticism for their opposition to new nature laws. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the differing perspectives on how best to balance environmental conservation with economic interests. The outcome of these reforms could significantly impact Australia's approach to environmental issues, making it a key topic for citizens and policymakers alike.

In a heated political exchange, a Nationals senator accused a TikTok staff member of bullying his office regarding inquiries about a proposed ban on social media use for those under 16. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between social media platforms and government regulations, particularly as discussions around youth safety and mental health intensify. The Greens party has also weighed in, emphasizing that the costs of inaction on climate change will far outweigh any expenses related to implementing necessary measures. This situation underscores the critical intersection of technology, politics, and public health.

Rhian Wyn's heartbreaking experience highlights the isolation many families face after a suicide. After being informed of her son's death by a police officer, she felt abandoned in her grief. This situation underscores the urgent need for better support systems for those affected by suicide, as families often struggle with overwhelming emotions and lack the necessary resources to cope. Raising awareness about this issue is crucial to ensure that no one has to navigate such a painful journey alone.

A tragic incident occurred at the Endeavour mine in far western New South Wales, where a woman and a man lost their lives due to an explosion. Another woman was airlifted to the hospital for treatment. This event highlights the ongoing risks associated with mining operations and raises concerns about safety protocols in such hazardous environments.

Hurricane Melissa is intensifying and is expected to make landfall in Jamaica by Tuesday morning, marking it as the strongest storm recorded since the 1850s. With predictions of up to 40 inches of rain in eastern Jamaica and significant rainfall in western Haiti, residents are taking shelter as the storm approaches. This situation is critical as it poses severe risks to life and property, highlighting the importance of preparedness in the face of such natural disasters.

Hurricane Melissa is set to hit Jamaica, with meteorologists warning of catastrophic winds, flooding, and storm surges. This storm is being labeled as the world's strongest for 2025, raising serious concerns for the safety of residents and the potential for widespread damage. As the island braces for impact, the urgency for preparedness and response measures is critical, highlighting the increasing severity of weather events in the region.

Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a Category 5 storm, threatening Jamaica with catastrophic flooding and landslides. This storm is set to be the strongest to hit the island in recorded history, raising alarms among residents and officials. With six fatalities already reported in the northern Caribbean, the urgency for preparedness is critical as Melissa approaches Jamaica, expected to make landfall soon before moving on to Cuba and the Bahamas. The potential for widespread damage makes this a significant event for the region.