Australia Post has increased its fuel surcharge for delivery companies as the number of service stations running empty surges across the country. The move comes as the government lowers diesel standards in a bid to boost supply, with many stations reporting shortages.
In other developments, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the conclusion of negotiations on a free trade agreement between Australia and the European Union. The deal is expected to strengthen bilateral trade and investment, support economic growth, and reinforce shared commitments to open and rules-based trade.
Thousands of public school teachers, support staff, and principals have gathered at Victorian Trades Hall in Melbourne, striking for better pay. The union reports 15,000 people at the rally, demanding improved wages and conditions.
Telstra has announced price increases across its mobile services, including its Belong brand, drawing criticism from consumer advocates. Carol Bennett, CEO of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network, called the move a 'slap in the face' for customers, noting that Telstra recently reported record profits and increased shareholder returns.
The Australian sharemarket experienced volatility, initially gaining $30 billion in value before losing it all amid conflicting reports on US-Iran talks. The benchmark S&P/ASX200 closed at 8,379 points, down nearly 9% from its peak at the start of the war.
