Sydney records highest temperature in nearly two years amid heatwave as Tasmanian bushfires threaten homes

Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King has announced the opening of five new offshore exploration zones in Victoria's Otway basin as part of Australia's future gas strategy. This decision has been met with strong condemnation from the Greens and environmental groups, who label it an 'environmental betrayal' that contradicts the Labor government's climate commitments.

Bushfires are currently ravaging New South Wales and Tasmania, with over 50 active fires reported, leading to the destruction of homes and at least one confirmed death. The extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 41°C in Koolewong, combined with strong winds, has exacerbated the situation, making firefighting efforts increasingly difficult.

Alicia Kemp, a 25-year-old British backpacker from Redditch, Worcestershire, has been sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death while under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred in Perth, Western Australia, when she collided with Thanh Phan, a 51-year-old father-of-two.

Allegra Spender has raised concerns over the trend of demolishing affordable flats in Sydney to make way for luxury apartments, warning that this practice fosters public cynicism towards development. Despite New South Wales housing policy mandating a portion of affordable units in higher density developments, rental prices in some suburbs can still reach up to $1,000 per week.