Australia

The economy is pivoting toward copper and AI investment as major miners abandon large-scale consolidation. BHP's profits are surging from copper demand, while Rio Tinto is pursuing growth plans and early-stage investment talks with Codelco after its failed merger with Glencore. Simultaneously, companies are cutting jobs to invest in AI technology, and export markets are volatile with record almond sales to China but weak Chinese demand for gas.

• 5Australian companies cut jobs and invest in AI technology
• 5BHP profits surge as copper demand overtakes iron ore earnings
• 3Codelco, Rio Tinto sign early agreement to weigh investments
• 3BHP leans on copper growth, not big deals
• 3Let’s not be lazy about it: the RBA can’t fix our inflation problem

Political focus is split between international engagement and domestic discord. The government secured a defense pact with the EU and offered to help Sri Lanka join a major trade zone. Domestically, a parliamentary hearing devolved into chaos with the Attorney General accusing top Democrats of 'theatrics'.

• 1Australia ready to help Sri Lanka join RCEP-world’s largest free trade zone
• 1Bondi hearing devolves into chaos of shouts as AG accuses top Democrats of 'theatrics'

Security is in a state of high alert due to a series of direct threats against political figures and public attacks. Prime Minister Albanese was evacuated from his residence over a security threat, which was later linked to a banned Chinese dance group. This period also saw a fatal stabbing in Sydney, charges over alleged death threats to Israeli President Herzog, and two Chinese nationals charged with spying.

• 6One person killed, two injured in Sydney stabbing attack
• 5Australian PM Albanese evacuated from official residence over security threat | World News
• 4Australia Hanukkah terror attack suspect seen for first time in prison
• 4Australia to spend $2.8 billion on new nuclear subs facility
• 3Invasion Day: Man charged with terrorism over attack on Perth rally

Society is contending with a severe and persistent flooding crisis affecting multiple states. Flood warnings and watches have been issued for river systems across South Australia, Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Victoria, indicating widespread environmental disruption.

• 6Flood warnings issued for multiple South Australian river systems
• 5Flood | Flooding - Strathfieldsaye
• 3Two deaths linked to fungus cluster at Sydney hospital
• 2Riverine Flood | Flood Watch for Central Desert
• 2Jacinda Ardern snubs New Zealand with move to Australia