Defence & ADF Recruitment: The Albanese Government says the ADF has hit its biggest size in 25 years, with record intakes across Navy, Army and Air Force and improved retention. AUKUS at Five: Five years on, commentators argue the program still has a long way to go, with big questions about pace, cost and what Australia is getting for the investment. AI Child Safety Push: The EU is moving to restrict under-15s from social media and AI “companions”, adding fresh pressure on Australia’s own digital duty of care debate. Digital Duty of Care: Australia’s exposure draft faces calls for key changes so platforms actually act on online child sexual exploitation, not just respond after harm is reported. Data Centres & the Environment: National Cabinet is set to develop mandatory standards for large data centres, but critics say Australia still lacks transparent data on energy and water use, plus broader lifetime impacts. Climate Risk One Year On: A year after Australia’s national climate risk assessment, the review says concrete action has lagged despite 63 major risks identified. Migration & One Nation: One Nation’s proposed migration cuts are being attacked as an economic drag, while Labor and others argue for “manageable” reductions without damaging Australia’s social cohesion. Indigenous Rights & Crown Land: NSW’s crown land bill is again under fire for potentially weakening undetermined Aboriginal land claims. ACT Gambling Reform: The ACT is pushing major pokies changes, including account-based cashless gaming and tighter operating hours. Canberra Violence Services: A Canberra legal service reports a 40% surge in requests for help as violence concerns grow. Energy & Fuel Prices: With Middle East tensions, Energy Minister Chris Bowen flags fuel security worries and the possibility of renewed fuel excise relief. Shark Attack (WA): A surfer is seriously injured after a shark attack near Geraldton, prompting calls to review local shark mitigation. Work & Holiday Visa Rules: Australia’s Work and Holiday eligibility lists conditions and countries, with attention on which nationalities are included and the extra hurdles for some applicants. International Students Debate: Universities Australia warns proposed student cuts could shrink campuses and jobs, arguing the message to future talent matters as much as the numbers.