News Bargaining Law: Australia has passed a new “pay-or-negotiate” regime forcing Big Tech (including Google, Meta and LinkedIn) to strike deals with local news publishers or pay a 2.5% levy on Australian ad revenue, with caps and incentives aimed at keeping journalism funded. Economy Watch: The unemployment rate rose to 4.5% in July as employment fell and hours worked dropped, signalling the labour market is starting to soften. Housing & Migration Pressure: The government faces mounting concern over housing confidence and a growing partner visa backlog as it tries to curb net overseas migration. Israel-Aid Worker Fallout: Foreign Minister Penny Wong says Australia’s relationship with Israel is “difficult” after Israel declined to open a criminal investigation into the killing of WCK aid worker Zomi Frankcom and colleagues; Australia has summoned the Israeli ambassador. Bush Tragedy: NSW police found missing 18-year-old Lily Hooper dead after an eight-day search, following a painful miscommunication that briefly told her family she was alive. Wildlife & Health: Australia is vaccinating little penguins against H5N1, while South Australia reports over 1,000 dead birds in suspected mass mortality events. Local Culture & Media: Powerhouse Parramatta is set to open 7 November, and BBC Studios and SBS are expanding Creator Lab to develop Australian YouTube talent.