Millions of Australians eligible for 5% first home buyers scheme may be unable to afford repayment

Wildfires are becoming increasingly deadly and costly, with half of the billion-dollar fires in the last 44 years occurring in just the past decade. The devastating fires in central Chile last year claimed 133 lives, while California's 2018 fires destroyed 18,000 buildings, resulting in $16 billion in damages. Countries like Portugal, Greece, Algeria, and Australia have also faced significant losses. This trend highlights the urgent need for better fire management and climate action to prevent further tragedies.

In a significant development in the case of three-year-old Cheryl Grimmer, who disappeared from a beach in Australia 55 years ago, police have identified an 'area of interest' in their ongoing search. This discovery reignites hope for her family and the community, as they have long sought answers about her mysterious disappearance. The investigation continues to draw attention, highlighting the enduring impact of unresolved cases on families and society.

Papua New Guinea has officially approved a delayed defence treaty with Australia, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations. This treaty is crucial as it enhances security cooperation in the region, especially in light of increasing geopolitical tensions. The approval reflects PNG's commitment to fostering a stable and secure environment, which is essential for both nations' interests.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is set to provide troops to Australia under a new mutual defense treaty, marking the first significant alliance formed since the Anzus agreement in 1951. This development is crucial as it strengthens regional security and showcases a commitment to collaborative defense efforts in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges. The treaty, named after the Pukpuk region, symbolizes a deepening partnership between the two nations, enhancing their ability to respond to threats and ensuring stability in the Pacific.

YouTube is challenging its inclusion in Australia's upcoming social media ban for under-16s, arguing that it was denied procedural fairness. This legal battle highlights the ongoing tensions between tech companies and government regulations, especially concerning youth safety online. As the law looms, the outcome could set a significant precedent for how social media platforms operate in Australia and influence similar regulations worldwide.

Vanuatu is considering a significant agreement with Australia while emphasizing its sovereignty and resisting pressure from larger nations. Internal Affairs Minister Andrew Napuat highlighted the importance of not succumbing to 'bullying' as the country strengthens its policing ties with China. This situation is crucial as it reflects Vanuatu's balancing act in international relations, particularly in the context of its negotiations with Australia regarding the Nakamal agreement, which remains unsigned.

Erin Patterson, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in a mushroom poisoning case, is set to appeal her convictions. This development is significant as it raises questions about the legal proceedings and the evidence presented during the trial. The appeal could potentially alter the course of her life and the perception of justice in similar cases.

Since the beginning of Trump's second presidency, at least 29 Americans have sought asylum in Australia, reflecting a growing trend among US citizens looking for safety and stability abroad. This increase, although still a small fraction of total applications, highlights the concerns many have about the political climate in the United States and the desire for a fresh start in a new country.

In a troubling incident, hackers have deleted children's pictures and data following backlash from a nursery attack. While they expressed remorse to the BBC, experts suggest their apology may be more about practicality than morality. This situation raises significant concerns about cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive information, especially when it involves vulnerable populations like children.

Australia kicked off their Women's Cricket World Cup title defense in style, defeating New Zealand by 89 runs in Indore. Ashleigh Gardner made headlines by scoring a remarkable 115 runs off just 83 balls, marking the third-fastest century in the tournament's history. This victory not only showcases Australia's strong start but also highlights Gardner's exceptional talent, as she became the first player to score a century batting at No. 6 or lower in the World Cup. Such performances are crucial as they set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Australia kicked off their title defense in the Women's Cricket World Cup against New Zealand in Indore, showcasing the excitement of women's cricket on a global stage. The match, held at Holkar Stadium, not only highlights the competitive spirit of the teams but also emphasizes the growing popularity and recognition of women's sports. Fans are eager to see how Australia will perform as they aim to retain their championship title.

Waking up at 2am is a common issue many face, often linked to maintenance insomnia, which makes it hard to fall back asleep. While some people drift off easily, they may find themselves awake in the middle of the night, worrying about various life stresses. Understanding this phenomenon is important as it can affect overall well-being and productivity. Experts suggest that recognizing the triggers and implementing relaxation techniques can help improve sleep quality, making it a relevant topic for anyone struggling with nighttime awakenings.

In the latest Europa League matches, Nottingham Forest faced Midtjylland, losing 2-3, while Aston Villa secured a solid 2-0 victory against Feyenoord. These results highlight the competitive nature of the tournament and the shifting dynamics of European football, especially with Nottingham Forest's recent relegation to the Conference League. Fans are keen to see how these teams will adapt and perform in their respective leagues moving forward.

As the US government faces a potential shutdown, President Donald Trump has vowed to make cuts to what he calls 'Democrats’ favorite projects' if the deadlock continues. In an interview with OAN, he emphasized his authority to eliminate funding for programs he believes should never have been approved. This situation is significant as it could impact various sectors, including travel and national parks, and reflects ongoing political tensions that could affect everyday Americans.

The recent attack at a Manchester synagogue has left two people dead and three injured, prompting police to name the suspect, Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen. This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns about terrorism and public safety in the UK, as authorities have arrested three others on charges related to preparing acts of terrorism. The incident has shocked the local community and raised questions about security measures in places of worship.

An investigation has revealed that heart surgeon Karen Booth performed surgeries beyond her skill level, leading to multiple patient deaths. This alarming finding raises serious concerns about medical oversight and the standards of care in surgical practices, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to ensure patient safety.

A tragic terrorist attack in Manchester during Yom Kippur has left two people dead and several others injured. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of Jewish communities across the U.K., prompting authorities to enhance police security for congregations nationwide. The attack not only highlights the ongoing threat of violence against religious groups but also underscores the need for vigilance and solidarity in the face of such acts.

In response to the recent attack in Manchester, Prime Minister Starmer has pledged to protect Jewish communities across Britain. He emphasized the need to combat antisemitic hate, a sentiment echoed by the King and various religious leaders and politicians. This commitment is crucial as it highlights the importance of unity and support for marginalized communities during challenging times.