Arts Minister Exits Labor State Election Race

The Arts Minister has unexpectedly withdrawn from the Labor Party's state election race, citing personal reasons and sparking speculation about the party's electoral strategy.

Youth Detention Costs Hit $1.3M Per Child

New data reveals the annual cost of youth detention in Australia has surged to $1.3 million per child, sparking calls for reform and investment in early intervention programs.

Chris Picton Returns to Work, Shares Grief Over Brother's Death

South Australian MP Chris Picton has returned to his parliamentary duties, revealing the profound emotional impact of his brother's recent passing. The politician spoke candidly about his personal turmoil while resuming his public service role.

E-Bike Gangs Attack Walkers on Fernleigh Track

Newcastle residents report escalating intimidation by teenage e-bike and dirt bike riders on the Fernleigh Track, with incidents of water balloons, rocks, and abuse leading to police action and community concern.

Paul Murray Slams PM's Anti-Jewish Comments

Political commentator Paul Murray has strongly criticised Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's recent statements, arguing they dangerously fuel anti-Jewish sentiment in Australia.

Albanese Secures $25B Hospital Deal with States

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has brokered a landmark $25 billion hospital funding agreement with states and territories, tripling federal investment and addressing NDIS sustainability concerns.

ACT Moves to Terminate Big Splash Water Park Lease

The ACT government has taken the first regulatory step to potentially resume control of the dilapidated Big Splash water park in Macquarie, issuing a notice of lease termination consideration.

Hastie Rules Out Liberal Leadership Challenge

Liberal MP Andrew Hastie has announced he will not contest the party's leadership, stating he lacks sufficient support from colleagues despite welcoming the opportunity.

Fresh Police Appeal Over Suspicious Wickham Gym Fire

Newcastle detectives have released CCTV footage of two men and a vehicle as they investigate a suspicious fire at a Wickham gym. Police believe the incident may be linked to another similar event.

DNA Key in Home Invasion Case, Alleged Offender Granted Bail

A NSW Supreme Court judge has granted bail to one of two men accused of a violent home invasion in Wallsend, noting DNA evidence found on a balaclava and glove will be critical to placing him at the scene where a pregnant woman was threatened with a mache

Geelong Man Charged with Murder After Beach Death

A 53-year-old Geelong man, Simon Macaulay, has been accused of murder following the discovery of a woman's body on Eastern Beach. Police are investigating the incident as a homicide.

Seventh Arrest in Illawarra Drug Blitz

A seventh person has been charged following police raids across the Illawarra region, resulting in the seizure of firearms, cash, and narcotics valued at over $440,000.

Wyee Paper Subdivision Infrastructure Costs Returned to Council

Residents of the historic Wyee paper subdivision at Lake Macquarie face ongoing uncertainty as the NSW government returns responsibility for essential services infrastructure to the local council, leaving homeowners in a costly regulatory limbo.

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