It's Friday! Here are this week's big stories and some that you might have missed
The big headlines
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed that an OpenAI agent hacked into a Medicare portal in June, accessing both public and private information. The PM is currently in the US and he met with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to address his disappointment with the company's handling of the situation, saying: "It took the company way too long to inform the government what had occurred".
- Last weekend was a horror weekend for domestic violence, with three women and two children killed in four separate incidents. Charges have been laid against three men in Wagga Wagga, Bondi and Mole River for their alleged involvement in the domestic violence-related murders, while in Valley Heights a mother has been charged after allegedly killing her two children.
- Children’s author and illustrator Terry Denton has died at the age of 76. Denton was best known for his illustrations in the Treehouse book series, which were written by Andy Griffiths. His publisher Curtis Brown said Denton had passed away surrounded by family on Monday.
What else happened this week?
Tough years ahead for younger Australians, report reveals
Treasurer Jim Chalmers says Australians are “well-placed” to deal with these issues / Wikimedia Commons
The federal government released its latest intergenerational report, which highlights that more Australians will be dying than being born in 40 years time. The report also revealed a “tough economic future” for younger people, who are working longer and finding it harder to build wealth through home ownership than previous generations.
Moscow targeted in Ukrainian drone attack
One of Russia's key oil refineries in Moscow was hit on Sunday in the attack / Shutterstock
Two people have died following Ukraine’s "largest ever" drone attack on the Russian capital on Sunday. Over 1,000 drones and missiles were launched across Russia, many of which were intercepted by the Russian Defence Force.
Converse pulls recent ad after racism allegations
The ad evoked lynching imagery / Wikimedia Commons
Sneaker giant Converse has removed an advertisement that viewers say evoke racist imagery. The company issued an apology last Friday, saying: “This should not have happened and we will do better.”
800,000 bees have been stolen across Qld
The heists are being described as “the biggest theft in memory” / Pixabay
More than 40 colonies of bees have been stolen from three properties across far north Queensland, resulting in a loss of tens of thousands of dollars for apiarists. The alleged thieves are suspected to come from the industry, as the heists required specialist equipment.
First Nations content in schools to be slashed
Leeser said the Coalition plan would teach students about "national pride" and "Western values". / Shutterstock
The Coalition has revealed its new education plan would cut content around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and culture, Australia’s engagement with Asia, and sustainability from the curriculum. Shadow education minister Julian Leeser said in a statement that schools should focus on "Western values", including basics like "democracy, the rule of law and a fair go". Leeser suggested veterans should be directing towards teaching, saying they would help improve classroom behaviour and discipline.
Card surcharges to be eliminated October 1
The RBA estimates that prices will rise by 0.1 per cent after surcharge ban / Shutterstock
Surcharges on major card providers will be banned from October 1 after the Reserve Bank of Australia's major reform. The ban will save Australians an estimated $1.6 billion a year.
Lamarre-Condon murder trial begins in Sydney
Lamarre-Condon has pleaded not guilty to charges of domestic violence-related murder and aggravated break-and-enter / Shutterstock
The trial of former police officer Beau Lamarre-Condon started this week in Sydney. The ex-cop is accused of the murder of former casual partner, Jesse Baird and Baird’s partner, Luke Davies in 2023.
NRL referee abuse sparks controversy
Klein had to be escorted out of the stadium by security / Wikimedia Commons
The NRL is investigating potential breaches of spectator conduct after projectiles were thrown at referee Ashley Klein on Sunday. Spectators may face lengthy bans if found guilty by the NRL’s integrity unit.
Smart glasses to be banned
Commonwealth-run workplaces will be the target of the ban / Shutterstock
The federal government is seeking advice on a potential smart-glasses ban in public services spaces amid growing privacy fears. Many councils across the nation have implemented glasses bans in public pools, gyms and childcare centres.
Clavicular charged with rape and drugging women
Peters has faced backlash for his promotion of dangerous beauty regimes / Wikimedia Commons
Influencer Clavicular, known for his involvement in the looksmaxxing trend, has been charged with rape, providing alcohol to a person under legal drinking age, and drugging women for sex. Braden Eric Peters - Clavicular’s legal name - is set to appear in a US court on October 14.
And now for some good news...
Chimp regains sight from first-of-its-kind surgery
Chimp Haven provides medical care to hundreds of chimps like Pierre / Shutterstock
A 54-year-old chimpanzee has regained sight after undergoing cataract surgery. The surgery, undertaken at Chimp Haven in Louisiana, was the first of its kind, and restored functional sight to patient Pierre.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the following domestic violence support services
- 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732
- Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114
- Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578
