Pre-COP31 in Fiji: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese landed in Nadi as only two non-Pacific leaders joined the Tuvalu-focused push, with Australia facing fresh scrutiny over whether the Pacific climate agenda is getting real attention. Pacific climate finance: Fiji urged developed nations to fund a “just transition” as UN pre-COP talks opened, while Australia announced a $7.3m renewable energy push for Vanuatu. Heat in pregnancy: UN climate chief Simon Stiell warned extreme heat is driving higher risks of stillbirth, premature birth and low birth weight, citing a survey of health workers including Australia. Coal export backlash: Pacific leaders pressed Australia over fossil fuel expansion as 14 leaders prepare to visit Tuvalu. Student visa crackdown: New rules took effect from Oct 2, sharply limiting dependants and course transfers for most international students. Migration politics: Opposition Leader Angus Taylor says One Nation-style momentum will be met with a plan to slash net migration to about a third of current levels. ATO and payments: The ATO credit-card ban is tightening pressure on renters and small businesses, while crypto reporting rules are still not law despite being pencilled in. Defence industry: Richard Marles is set to outline six tech priorities at Land Forces 2026 in Perth. Flydubai probe: Australia is investigating links to the co-pilot accused in a terror attack attempt, with UAE interrogations alleging he planned the attack before being hired.