Student Visas Hit Nigerians Hard: Australia has lifted 2026 student and post-study work visa fees, with Subclass 500 rising about 25% (to AU$2,500) and Subclass 485 jumping to AU$5,750, sparking backlash from universities. NSW “Nangs” Crackdown: New South Wales moves to restrict nitrous oxide sales, limiting cylinder/tank amounts and tightening rules for under-18s from November 5. Winter Weather Worsens in SA: A cold front drenched Adelaide, delivering 70% of July’s median rainfall in a day and triggering hundreds of SES call-outs. Local Government Funding Pressure: Councils nationwide warn of a financial crisis, urging a $3.5b boost to Financial Assistance Grants to restore funding certainty. Aged Care Algorithm Overhaul: The Senate passed changes to bring human oversight back to an aged care funding tool after criticism it was “cruel” and left people under-assessed. Christian Brothers Pause in Abuse Payouts: An Australian court granted the order a pause on payouts as it claims it’s running out of money, with a proposed property sale to fund partial settlements. Solar Sharer Offer: Households can opt in for up to 24kWh of free midday electricity during a daily three-hour window, even without rooftop solar. World Cup Fandom Rules: Victoria and NSW allow pubs to stay open overnight for the Socceroos vs Egypt match, with state-by-state liquor rules easing the party plans.