AI & Data Centres: The federal government is set to override Queensland at Wednesday’s cabinet meeting on new energy and water rules for AI data centres, with “causer pays” style requirements aimed at stopping big power demand from lifting bills. Biosecurity: Australia’s bird flu response is ramping up after more than 24,000 calls to the hotline, with vaccination drives underway for at-risk species including little penguins on Phillip Island. Canberra Social Policy: A Canberra “Third Spaces” push is bringing aged-care residents and the wider community together via public cafés, targeting loneliness for older Australians and the broader population. Housing Costs (ACT): A Canberra couple’s downsizing decision turned into a $15m cladding bill, highlighting how building compliance costs can land on residents. Scams: Australians have lost $186.9m to scams in 2026 so far, with investment swindles increasingly using AI deepfakes. Public Health & Disability: A major study finds parents of children with disability face much higher psychological distress and poorer health outcomes. Integrity & Lobbying: Four Corners spotlights a defence “revolving door” into lobbying, renewing calls for tighter rules. International: US envoy Tom Barrack walks back comments about Israel’s Golan position, insisting US policy is unchanged.