Key Headlines from Thursday 18 June
As we close the blog for the day, here is a recap of the major stories.
Media Alliance Supports Journalist
The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance issued a statement in support of Guardian Australia journalist Sarah Martin, who was subjected to a personal and unfounded attack by Pauline Hanson on Wednesday. The federal parliamentary press gallery committee also strongly objected to threats made by the One Nation leader to ban journalists.
Migration Numbers Decline
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that approximately 563,500 people arrived in Australia via migration in 2025. This is 32,000 fewer than in 2024 and lower than every year after 2018, except for 2020 and 2021 when pandemic border closures were in effect. Migration departures fell by 2,700 people to 262,700 in 2025 from the previous year. Consequently, net overseas migration decreased from 330,400 in 2024 to 301,000 in 2025.
CGT Exemption Threshold Raised
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese increased the threshold for small businesses to obtain an exemption from capital gains tax (CGT) to $10 million, five times the previous level. This move responds to criticism about tax reforms. Albanese also proposed a new innovative business tax concession for startups, addressing concerns that entrepreneurs could be treated too harshly under the proposed change from a flat 50% CGT discount to an inflation-linked model.
Qantas Delays Sydney-London Service
Qantas announced a new launch date for its nonstop Sydney to London service: October 2027. The first Project Sunrise Sydney to London flights will use a specially manufactured A350 plane built by Airbus in France, cutting four hours off travel time, according to a Qantas media release.
Jackie Henderson's Legal Claim Proceeds
Jackie “O” Henderson’s legal team informed the federal court that the former breakfast host intends to pursue her $82 million claim against Kiis FM. While Kyle Sandilands’ legal claim has been formally discontinued after he settled his dispute with ARN Media for a $12 million cash payout, Henderson’s claim will continue.
Thank you for following along. We will return tomorrow with more updates.
