Australian federal government

A federal government assessment reveals nearly 400 native Australian bird and mammal species, including penguins, dolphins, parrots, and fur seals, are at high risk from the H5N1 bird flu virus, which could cause severe population declines. The evaluation of over 2,000 species found almost one in five facing significant threats from the virus.

A national test of Australia's AusAlert emergency warning system will sound a ten-second siren on most phones despite state government reservations. People with secret 'safe phones' for personal safety are advised to turn off devices for 24 hours after the test. Eligible devices include specific iPhones, Apple Watches, and Android models.

A government report in Australia found that women and university graduates are most at risk of job displacement by artificial intelligence, with telemarketers, advertising staff, and accountants being particularly vulnerable. Conversely, individuals with high levels of vocational training, such as tradespeople, face the least risk of AI-related job loss.

Tech companies are using Australia’s free trade agreement with the United States and threatening Trump administration retaliation to oppose a proposal requiring them to pay news companies. The law would force Meta, Google, and TikTok to negotiate commercial deals with Australian media outlets or face a 2.25% levy on local revenues.