Australia news live: Google warns of ‘unintended consequences’ from under-16s social media ban; Burke urges calm after Thorpe’s rally comments

Australia's women's cricket team achieved a remarkable victory over India, winning by three wickets in the 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup. Captain's outstanding performance, scoring 142 runs, played a crucial role in completing a record run chase of 331. This win not only boosts Australia's confidence but also marks India's second loss in the tournament, highlighting the competitive nature of this year's event.

In an exhilarating match, Australia successfully chased down India's record score of 330 in the Women's Cricket World Cup, marking a historic moment in women's cricket. Alyssa Healy's outstanding century was pivotal in this achievement, showcasing Australia's remarkable talent and resilience. This victory not only highlights the growing competitiveness in women's cricket but also sets a new benchmark for future matches, making it a significant event for fans and players alike.

A recent report from the Grattan Institute predicts that by 2050, Australian household energy bills could be cut in half, thanks to advancements in solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles. This significant reduction in costs not only eases the financial burden on families but also opens up opportunities for the federal government to take more decisive action on climate change. As energy prices drop, the transition to renewable energy sources becomes more feasible, making this a crucial development for both the economy and the environment.

Australian Madeleine Habib has been released from an Israeli jail after her involvement in an aid flotilla that was intercepted while heading to Gaza. This release is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by humanitarian efforts. While it remains unclear if she signed a waiver as demanded by Israeli authorities, her return to Jordan marks a crucial moment for advocates of aid and support for Gaza.

Thousands of people gathered in cities across Australia to support pro-Palestine rallies, with organizers pledging to continue their protests even after a ceasefire in Gaza. The events reflect a growing movement advocating for Palestinian rights, with many participants expressing hope that a US-brokered deal could lead to lasting peace and an end to violence. This ongoing activism highlights the importance of public discourse around international conflicts and the role of grassroots movements in shaping policy.

A recent study by the GMB union reveals a troubling pay gap among parliamentary staff, indicating that people of color earn an average of £2,000 less annually than their white colleagues. This disparity extends beyond race, as the report also highlights significant pay inequalities faced by women and staff with disabilities, as well as those identifying as trans, non-binary, or gay. This issue is crucial as it underscores the ongoing challenges of equality and fairness in the workplace, prompting calls for urgent reforms to address these disparities.

Australian players and coaches are increasingly finding opportunities in Major League Soccer (MLS), marking a significant shift in the landscape of soccer for Aussies. This trend highlights the growing appeal of MLS as a viable career path for talented individuals from Australia, who traditionally looked to Europe for their soccer ambitions. The rise of 'Aussies Abroad' content reflects this change, showcasing the journeys of these players and their contributions to the sport. As more Australians make their mark in MLS, it not only enhances their careers but also elevates the profile of Australian soccer on the global stage.

The upcoming match between India and Australia in the Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 is generating excitement as the undefeated defending champions take on the home favorites in Visakhapatnam. This clash is not just a game; it represents a significant moment for women's cricket, showcasing the growing popularity and competitiveness of the sport. Fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown, which promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Reappointed French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized the importance of an independent cabinet that isn't influenced by political parties. This statement comes as he faces the challenge of addressing a growing political crisis while preparing a budget bill due by Monday. His ability to navigate these issues is crucial for maintaining stability in France's governance.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who was reappointed just days after resigning, is now under pressure to present a budget bill for 2026 by Monday. This situation is critical as he must navigate a divided parliament, where both left and right opposition members are poised to challenge his new cabinet. The outcome of this budget proposal will significantly impact France's financial planning and governance, making it a key moment for Lecornu's leadership.

In a significant breach of security, hackers known as Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters have leaked data from Qantas, exposing the personal information of 5 million customers after their ransom deadline passed. This incident highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks on major companies and raises concerns about data privacy and security for consumers. With nearly 40 companies affected, the implications of this breach could be far-reaching, affecting not just Qantas but also the trust customers place in online services.

In a thrilling match at Stade Saputo, the Socceroos secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Canada, thanks to a standout performance from Nestory Irankunda. This win is significant as it showcases Australia's growing prowess in international soccer, especially against a strong Canadian side. Fans are buzzing with excitement as the team continues to build momentum ahead of future competitions.

The kibbutz of Nir Oz has been deeply affected by the recent Hamas attacks, with a quarter of its population either killed or taken hostage. This tragic situation highlights the ongoing violence and its devastating impact on communities, emphasizing the urgent need for resolution and support for those affected.

In Australia, Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil has condemned comments made by Senator Lidia Thorpe at a pro-Palestine rally, where she suggested she would 'burn down parliament house to make a point.' This statement has raised concerns about the implications of such rhetoric in the current political climate. Meanwhile, Google has issued a warning regarding potential 'unintended consequences' of a proposed ban on social media access for users under 16. These developments highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding free speech and the responsibilities of social media platforms.

US President Donald Trump announced that the war in Gaza has ended, signaling a potential return to normalcy in the Middle East. As Israel awaits the release of hostages held by Hamas, world leaders are convening to discuss the next steps towards achieving lasting peace in the region. This development is significant as it may pave the way for stability and cooperation among nations.

The recent detention of Ezra Jin, a prominent underground pastor in China, has raised significant concerns about religious freedom in the country and its implications for U.S.-China relations. Jin has developed a thriving church network across 40 cities, but his ongoing struggles with authorities highlight the increasing pressure on religious leaders. This situation not only affects the local Christian community but also complicates diplomatic ties between the U.S. and China, as it brings attention to human rights issues that are often at the forefront of international discussions.

Donald Trump announced that the war in Gaza has concluded and expressed optimism about the normalization of relations in the Middle East as he headed to Israel for a peace summit. This statement is significant as it reflects a potential shift towards stability in a region long plagued by conflict, and it highlights the ongoing efforts of world leaders to foster dialogue and cooperation.

In a significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel is prepared to receive all hostages from Gaza, coinciding with former President Trump's declaration that 'war is over.' This moment is crucial as it signals a potential end to hostilities and the beginning of a humanitarian effort to reunite families. The situation remains delicate, with Netanyahu acknowledging ongoing security challenges, but the prospect of hostages being released brings hope for many affected by the conflict.