The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) will be called as witnesses to the royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion, following complaints about their coverage of the Middle East conflict.
Public Broadcasters Under Scrutiny
On Monday, counsel assisting Richard Lancaster SC said some submissions to the royal commission, established after the Bondi terror attack, are “highly critical” of the public broadcasters’ reporting on the Israel-Gaza war. An SBS spokesperson said it was “engaging with the royal commission process, including by providing written submissions.” The ABC also made a submission. Both broadcasters have defended their coverage against accusations of inaccuracy and perceived bias.
Victorian Premier Blames Inflation for Cost Blowouts
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has attributed cost blowouts in the Big Build infrastructure program to “inflation not corruption,” amid fresh allegations. The statement comes as the government faces scrutiny over rising project costs.
Fossil Fuel Presence in Schools and Sports
Concerns have been raised over the fossil fuel industry's presence in schools and sports clubs, with critics urging a separation from such sponsorships. The issue highlights ongoing debates about climate change and corporate influence.
World Cup 2026: Canada Advances
Co-hosts Canada became the first team through to the last 16 after a late winner secured a 1-0 victory over South Africa. Stephen Eustáquio struck from long range just as it appeared the match might head to extra time. Coach Jesse Marsh told his players: “You guys are Canadian heroes today, Canadian heroes for the future children of this country who play this sport.” Meanwhile, the Socceroos are motivated by an Olympic Games loss to Egypt as they prepare to face them in the round of 32. Unflappable 18-year-old Socceroo Lucas Herrington says he is happy to be compared to a Rolls-Royce.
Biden Calls Trump a ‘Loser’
Former US President Joe Biden called Donald Trump “a loser” in a pugnacious speech on Saturday, invoking Trump’s attempted makeover of Washington DC to portray him as incompetent, corrupt, and vain. Biden’s 10-minute discourse called out Trump on “vanity projects” including the demolition of the White House’s East Wing for a ballroom, plans for a triumphal arch, and an algae bloom that undermined a $14.7m renovation of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool. Biden said it reflected “corruption on a scale never seen before in American history in any administration.”
Erin Brockovich Takes on AI Datacentres
In 1993, Erin Brockovich squeezed a $333m settlement from a Californian energy company over contaminated water. Three decades later, the consumer advocate and environmental activist has a new global target in her sights – AI datacentres.
