Australia politics live: Ley says she welcomes ‘contest of ideas’ amid Liberal infighting; judges to rule on Palestine protest

In a thrilling match at the Women's Cricket World Cup, Beth Mooney delivered an outstanding performance, leading Australia to a commanding 107-run victory over Pakistan. Her remarkable innings not only showcased her talent but also set the tone for the team's success. The Australian bowlers then stepped up, effectively dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup. This win is significant as it reinforces Australia's dominance in women's cricket and boosts their confidence as they progress in the tournament.

George Miller, the acclaimed director of Mad Max, is embracing the role of judge at the Omni AI film festival in Australia, highlighting the positive impact of artificial intelligence on filmmaking. He argues that AI has democratized the industry, making it more accessible for diverse voices. Despite the controversy surrounding AI in Hollywood, particularly with the introduction of the first AI actress, Tilly Norwood, Miller's participation signals a shift towards recognizing AI's potential to enhance creativity rather than diminish it. This festival could pave the way for a new era in film, where technology and artistry coexist.

A tragic incident in Myanmar has left at least 20 people dead, including children, after the military launched a bomb attack using a motorized paraglider on a protest during a national holiday. This violent act highlights the ongoing turmoil in the country since the military coup in 2021, where anti-government demonstrations have been met with severe repression. The attack not only raises concerns about the safety of civilians but also underscores the urgent need for international attention and action to address the escalating violence in Myanmar.

Deloitte has found itself in hot water after submitting a $290,000 government report filled with AI-generated errors, referred to as 'hallucinations.' This misstep has led the accounting firm to agree to a partial refund to Australia's Labor Department. The incident raises significant concerns about the reliability of AI in critical reporting and highlights the need for rigorous oversight in the use of technology in professional services.

Intrepid, a leading tour operator known for its environmental focus, has decided to drop its carbon offsets and emissions targets, citing them as unachievable. Instead, the company will invest A$2 million annually into a 'climate impact fund' aimed at supporting renewable energy initiatives and transitioning to electric vehicles. This shift highlights the ongoing challenges in the travel industry regarding sustainability and the need for practical solutions to combat climate change.

A senior NSW police officer has expressed serious concerns about a pro-Palestine march planned at the Sydney Opera House, stating it has 'disaster written all over it.' This statement comes as the case involving police and representatives from the Palestine Action Group and Jews Against Occupation is currently before the NSW court of appeal. The implications of this march are significant, as it highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict and raises questions about public safety and freedom of expression in Australia.

Michael Miller, the chair of News Corp Australia, has expressed strong concerns about social media platforms, labeling them as 'true monsters' that are harming children. He emphasizes the need for the media to come together to combat what he describes as a second 'big steal' by tech companies, which are pushing for changes in copyright law to access content without compensation. This issue is crucial as it highlights the ongoing struggle between traditional media and tech giants over content rights and the impact on society, particularly on the younger generation.

Australia's cricket captain Pat Cummins is likely to miss the first Test of the Ashes series against England in Perth due to ongoing concerns about his fitness. He has not yet resumed bowling as he recovers from a back injury, raising questions about his availability for the entire series. This situation is significant as Cummins plays a crucial role in the team's performance, and his absence could impact Australia's chances in this highly anticipated competition.

Recent comments by Professor Christian Downie highlight a concerning trend in Australia, where media and political figures are actively undermining the country's emissions targets. He specifically points to the Business Council of Australia and News Corp as key players in this obstruction, which raises alarms about the future of climate policy in the nation. This matters because effective climate action is crucial for Australia to meet its international commitments and combat climate change, and such resistance could hinder progress significantly.

A groundbreaking study from Australia reveals that women have a higher genetic risk of depression compared to men, identifying 16 genetic variants linked to the condition in women versus only eight in men. This research, touted as the largest of its kind, sheds light on the biological factors contributing to mental health disparities between genders. Understanding these genetic differences is crucial for developing targeted treatments and interventions, ultimately improving mental health outcomes for women.

In a recent conference speech, shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick criticized what he termed 'activist' judges, suggesting that the Conservative Party would increase the role of ministers in the judicial appointment process. This move raises concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the potential for political influence over legal decisions, which is crucial for maintaining a fair justice system.

The notorious immigration jail known as 'Alligator Alcatraz' in Florida's Everglades has been revived after a judges' decision, despite previous indications it would close. This facility has faced serious allegations of inhumane treatment and has been labeled a 'black site' where individuals are reportedly being disappeared. The continuation of this jail raises significant concerns about the treatment of migrants and the broader implications for immigration policy in the U.S.

Schools are feeling a mix of excitement and caution as they begin to adopt AI technology to help reduce teacher workloads. While the potential benefits of AI are promising, a recent watchdog report highlights the need for careful consideration of its pitfalls. This development is significant as it could reshape the educational landscape, making teaching more efficient while also raising important questions about the implications of technology in classrooms.

Canada's Justice Minister has firmly rejected the demands of five provincial premiers to withdraw a legal submission aimed at limiting the use of the notwithstanding clause by the Supreme Court of Canada. This decision is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions between provincial leaders and the federal government regarding the balance of power and individual rights, raising questions about the future of legal interpretations in Canada.

In a hopeful turn of events, President Trump has indicated that negotiators are nearing a potential peace agreement in the Middle East, which could lead to a ceasefire in Gaza. This development is significant as it comes two years after the Hamas attack on Israel, marking a crucial moment for both regions. Trump's potential visit to the Middle East this weekend underscores the urgency and importance of these negotiations, as many are looking for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

The recent roundtable at the White House, featuring conservative influencers discussing grievances against left-wing protesters, has sparked controversy. Witnesses claimed they faced assaults from these protesters, yet many failed to acknowledge their own provocative actions. This event highlights the growing tensions in political discourse and the challenges of addressing violence and free speech in today's polarized environment.

Recent indirect talks between Israel and Hamas in Egypt have shown promising progress, with officials indicating that a peace deal may be on the horizon. This development is significant as it reflects ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing tensions in the region, and Trump's comments about being 'very close to a deal' add a hopeful tone to the negotiations.

In Australia, political tensions are rising as Ley expresses her support for a 'contest of ideas' amidst ongoing infighting within the Liberal Party. Meanwhile, the Palestine Action Group faces challenges from police regarding their planned protest this Sunday. This situation highlights the dynamic nature of Australian politics and the ongoing debates surrounding social issues, making it a significant moment for public discourse.