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Canberras bus network undergoes significant changes starting February 2026 due to the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal project, causing disruptions for about two years. Rapid bus services, especially in Belconnen, will see reduced frequency. A new initiative offers free public transport from 6 PM on Fridays and Saturdays until the end of February. The government encourages off-peak travel and anticipates increased travel times across Commonwealth Avenue. New timetables will be released in January, with rapid bus services operating every fifteen minutes until 7:30 PM on weekdays. Dedicated school services will remain mostly unchanged, and the government commits to monitoring and refining services as needed.

A significant sewerage leak beneath Wentworth Park in Sydney has triggered emergency response, with a cracked pipe eight to nine meters deep causing concerns. While the leak is contained, officials are working to prevent sewage from reaching Sydney Harbour. The government is taking precautions, with a temporary solution expected by December 19th and a full diversion planned for early January. The aging infrastructure, including a century-old pumping station, poses challenges. Residents in nearby areas face disruptions, but the government assures that these measures are necessary to protect the harbor. This issue unfolds as the government prepares to announce plans for Wentworth Parks future.

A man narrowly escapes injury after being shot at outside a gym; two suspects in black attire and balaclavas are sought. Witnesses describe the shooters, one image shows a suspect in black with a high-visibility vest and gloves. The incident causes panic, with nearby government service center staff and customers seeking safety. Police block off a shopping mall carpark, and a man in athletic gear speaks with officers. Inquiries begin, and Crime Stoppers urge anyone with information to come forward.

Anton Billis, an 81-year-old gold mining tycoon, has amassed a fortune in Western Australias gold mines, with no plans to sell his vast gold stockpiles at the Perth Mint. Despite his success, Billis only sells gold to meet financial obligations, believing gold will continue to appreciate. This years surge in gold prices, reaching over $6,000 an ounce, has significantly boosted the value of his and other miners stockpiles. The trend of retaining gold rather than selling it immediately reflects a growing sentiment among miners that gold is a valuable currency and strategic asset.

Australias economy grew by 2.1% in the year to September, slightly higher than expected, despite a slower-than-anticipated quarterly growth of 0.4%. This growth rate aligns with the Reserve Banks forecasts, indicating a potential growth rate of around 2% for the next two years, acting as the economys speed limit. Inflation has been rising, reaching 3.5% in the second half of the year, partly due to increased demand for goods and services. While the Reserve Bank may keep interest rates steady, the economys growth is supported by government spending on infrastructure and business investment in machinery and equipment. However, household spending on essentials has increased, with discretionary spending falling, and the savings ratio has risen, suggesting consumer caution. If productivity improves, it could raise the economys speed limit, enabling sustainable growth.

Tasmanian firefighters face multiple blazes, with Dolphin Sands residents urged to stay away as homes are lost. Evacuation center open at Swansea Town Hall. Ground crews and aerial resources working together, with improved weather conditions expected. Extreme fire danger warnings issued for South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.

Socceroos star Aziz Behich is eager for a rematch with Argentina in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, believing it would be great if Australia could face the reigning champions again. The draw for the next World Cup is set for December 6th, with a one-in-twelve chance of the two teams ending up in the same group. Behich, who had late chances to equalize against Argentina in the last World Cup, is not worried about facing tough opponents and sees the expanded tournament as an exciting new challenge. Hes determined to make it to his third World Cup and compete for a starting spot.

Novus, a major build-to-rent operator, expands in Sydney with a $290 million, 27-story complex, Novus on Albert, featuring 198 units. Meanwhile, Sydneys hotel sector recovers, with IHGs voco hotel in Gosford and increased investment activity. Accor and YTL Hotel plan new openings, indicating a thriving real estate market.

Red-tipped bananas, a common sight in Australia, recently went viral on social media, sparking curiosity worldwide. These bananas, grown using the Ecoganic farming method, have a red wax tip that indicates their sustainable production. Pioneered by Dianne and Frank Sciaccia, this method focuses on working with natural ecosystems to promote soil health and minimize chemical use. The viral moment has brought significant attention to their practices, with eight certified Ecoganic growers nationally. The Sciaccias are also expanding internationally, collaborating with a Japanese supermarket that found their bananas superior in taste and texture.