National Biography Award: Helen Ennis’ book Max Dupain: A Portrait has won the 2026 National Biography Award, with the $25,000 prize going to a fresh look at the photographer behind Sunbaker. Childcare pay & safety: The Albanese government moves to lock in a 15% pay rise for early educators and tie funding to national safety standards. Housing affordability debate: Tim Wilson argues energy-efficiency upgrades in housing shouldn’t be compulsory everywhere, calling it “putting a jumper on”. Bird flu response (Victoria): Victoria says H5 bird flu vaccines have arrived for little penguins at Phillip Island, with thousands expected to be vaccinated next week. Public health tech: AI cameras are set to be installed at Brisbane pools to detect swimmers in distress and alert lifeguards in real time. Economy & mortgages: CBA posts record full-year cash earnings but warns mortgage demand has fallen sharply since May’s tax changes. Defence & security: Multiple drones breached restricted airspace near RAAF Base Williamtown, raising questions about protection for F-35s. Cost-of-living politics: Australia’s $20m Fiji climate pre-summit spend sparks a taxpayer row. Aged care strain: Average aged care home wait times rise to 356 days, with regional differences across states and territories. NDIS debate: One Nation renews calls for means testing as the scheme’s cost continues to climb.