AUKUS Scrutiny: Australia’s AUKUS Public Inquiry in Melbourne drew public pushback, with former foreign minister Gareth Evans arguing the deal mainly serves US needs and embeds Australia into US command structures. Fuel Costs: Energy Minister Chris Bowen says the fuel excise cut and GST rebate are still set to end June 30, even as supplies are at record levels—so motorists may still face higher bowser prices. Tax Overhaul: Major Budget changes are reshaping Australia’s investment rules, including a shift away from the 50% CGT discount, tighter negative gearing for new builds, and new deductions/offsets for working Australians. Super Pressure on Sole Traders: New research finds many sole traders are deferring super to pay daily bills, raising retirement risk for a large self-employed cohort. Work & Gig Rights: New Zealand’s government backed the US against gig-worker protections at the ILO, drawing Green Party criticism and renewed calls for stronger contractor rights. Shipping Safety: The ATSB report on a near-grounding at Port Hedland points to an erroneous engine shutdown switch and highlights fleet-wide safety changes. Office Furniture Boom: Queensland is forecast to be the fastest-growing state for office furniture demand as workplaces keep upgrading fit-outs and ergonomics.