Australia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Australian retailers brace for a $1.6 billion Boxing Day shopping spree, with household goods, clothing, and department stores leading the charge. Hospitality spots and smaller retailers also anticipate a boost. The Australian Retailers Association emphasizes the importance of supporting local shops and national chains, highlighting the retail sectors resilience amid challenges. The full week from Christmas to December 31st is projected to reach $3.832 billion, up 4.4%, driven by sales, gift cards, and the ongoing pursuit of value.

Gold Coast residents warned to stay out of water due to sewage leak; signs posted at Quota Park; water testing results due Wednesday; avoid eating fish or crabs from affected area for three days; council faces criticism for aging pipes and recent massive spill.

Sydney anaesthetist, Dr. Allan Richard Molloy, wins tiny harbourside plot through squatters rights after a decade-long dispute. The plot, just over three square metres, was used by the family for decades, meeting the rules for adverse possession. The New South Wales Supreme Court ruled in his favour, awarding him the land and covering his legal costs.

Robin Poke, a renowned rowing enthusiast and Olympic figure, passed away at age eighty-something. Known as a gentleman in the rowing world and a loving family man, Pokes life was marked by dedication to the sport and cherished family moments. Born in England, he rowed in New South Wales before moving to Australia, where he founded Australian Rowing magazine, led the Australian Rowing Council, and chaired the ACT Rowing Association. Poke managed national teams at world championships and served as media liaison for rowing at multiple Olympic Games. Despite battling a degenerative eye disorder, he earned a masters and PhD in sports studies, focusing on Australian rowing history. Pokes daughter Tami highlighted his family as his greatest achievement. Tributes poured in, and a memorial service is set for January thirtieth, honoring a life that pushed boundaries on and off the water.

Norwegian tourist brutally attacked at Melbourne beach, suspects sought: Police release photos of four key suspects in the vicious assault that left the victim with broken arm and facial injuries.

37-year-old man dies in e-scooter crash near Mount Tarcoola, WA; police investigate, urge witnesses to come forward; local authorities express safety concerns over rising e-scooter incidents.

England captain Ben Stokes dismisses selfish play rumors, emphasizing team unity despite individual struggles. Players like Ollie Pope and Jacob Bethell put in extra effort to improve. Stokes views this tour as challenging but aims for a strong finish with two wins.

Refugees in Australias regional towns find a welcoming environment, with 97% enjoying life and 76% planning to stay long-term. However, nearly half still face racism, with 50% reporting experiences at personal, institutional, or structural levels. The study highlights economic benefits, as refugees fill job gaps, launch businesses, and boost local spending. Researchers urge local councils and community groups to promote inclusion and ease tensions.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns responds to the Bondi massacre with sweeping emergency laws on guns, protests, and hate speech, following a terrorist attack that killed fifteen people. The omnibus bill caps gun ownership, limits magazine capacity, tightens licenses, and lets police restrict public gatherings. The measures pass the upper house, with opposition from Nationals over firearm curbs. The Greens add a last-minute tweak banning guns for anyone probed for terror offenses or their household members. Officials now eye more reforms to tackle hate speech and Islamist extremism. Premier Minns calls for unity, visiting a mosque that lit a menorah in solidarity with the Jewish community.