Defence & regional drills: Australia’s Pitch Black in Darwin wrapped with Philippine FA-50 jets joining 21 nations, as Defence Ministers Richard Marles and Gilberto Teodoro pushed for stronger missile-launch notification and transparency after China’s South China Sea test. Pacific diplomacy: Pacific foreign ministers in Suva failed to agree on a joint response to China’s missile launch, with New Zealand’s Winston Peters saying the chance for a unified statement was missed. Housing pressure in Victoria: New data shows 611,311 Victorian homeowners in mortgage stress as rate hikes add 74,000 more households, with outer-Melbourne postcodes flagged as default hotspots. Gambling reform fight: A federal wagering advertising crackdown inquiry heard explosive testimony, and even Coalition MPs are now calling for changes to Labor’s bill. Census and vulnerable groups: Advocates say homeless people face barriers to completing the 2026 Census, with field officers visiting services to help. ACT local government & community: Canberra Metro launched a commuter book club, while demolition is set to begin on Ainslie’s Wakefield Gardens site after a suspected arson and contamination findings. Biosecurity & wildlife: Victoria ordered poultry housing for H5N1 prevention, and WA programs are preparing for bird flu’s impact on endangered species. Invasive species alert: Fire ants were found in Queensland’s Lamington National Park, renewing fears for native wildlife and ecosystem health. Tech & rights: Research highlights how online abuse and intimidation is reshaping women’s participation in politics, with calls for stronger protections.