7News Just In

Australians lodged more than 3,400 complaints about private health insurers, with HCF receiving the highest number of complaints from dissatisfied customers. The majority of grievances involved claims being underpaid or denied entirely, while other customers faced difficulties cancelling their cover or obtaining refunds after switching providers. The watchdog has revealed the insurance companies with the highest complaint rates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A construction site at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney likely caused a fatal aspergillus mould outbreak that killed three patients and left another in intensive care four months later. A New South Wales Health committee investigation found that testing and cleaning audits at the hospital failed to meet delivery standards. The aspergillus spores were probably aerosolised from construction work and travelled to a balcony area where patients were exposed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five people have been charged over the abduction and murder of 45-year-old mother Kim Tran in Sydney nearly a year ago. Police allege a kill crew was hired to murder her husband, but when he failed to appear, they kidnapped Kim Tran instead, shooting her and burning her body in a car. An 8-year-old boy was assaulted with a baseball bat during the attack, and four other men already face charges in connection with the case.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A German warhead manufacturer TDW and Australia's Department of Defence have signed a letter of intent to produce high-tech cruise missiles in Australia. The agreement was witnessed by both nations' defence ministers at Amberley Air Base in Queensland, where German military officials also inspected Australia's new autonomous Ghost Bat fighter jets. The Ghost Bat aircraft are scheduled to join the RAAF's arsenal in the coming years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melbourne police are commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Russell Street Police Complex car bombing that killed 21-year-old Constable Angela Taylor and injured 21 others. A special ceremony is being held to honour Constable Taylor's memory, with her loved ones and many of those affected by the 1986 attack in attendance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Six months have passed since four-year-old Gus Lamont disappeared from his family homestead near Yunta, South Australia, on AFL grand final night. His grandmother Shannon Murray remains hopeful the preschooler will be found, while his other grandparent Josie Murray has released a statement through her lawyer confirming cooperation with solicitors. The boy vanished without a trace from the rural property.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former NRL star and Wallaby Wendell Sailor has had assault charges dismissed on mental health grounds at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court. The 51-year-old pleaded guilty to three charges, including resisting arrest in Wollongong and hindering police at a Sydney bar, but Magistrate Jennifer Atkinson dismissed all charges under Section 14 of the Mental Health Act. A doctor's report revealed Sailor was using alcohol to cope with his mother's death and the breakdown of his nearly 30-year marriage, with the court finding his alcohol-related incidents were linked to mental health struggles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Radio host Kyle Sandilands has fronted the Federal Court in a legal battle with his former employer, the Australian Radio Network, after his $100 million contract was terminated following an on-air argument with co-host Jackie O. Sandilands is seeking $85 million in damages, with his legal team arguing that his behaviour was consistent with his 25-year career and was covered under his contract. The case will return to court next month, with the judge to determine whether ARN's grievances over Sandilands' entire career or just the specific 20-minute argument can be considered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has launched a missile attack on Israel, with several cluster bombs breaching the Iron Dome defence system. At least nine people have been injured in the strikes, including five in the central city of Kafr Qasim where the impact flipped a car and sent shrapnel flying. Multiple strikes have caused significant damage across affected areas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Iran, extending his deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz while warning that failure to make peace 'won't be pretty'. Trump revealed Iran allowed 10 ships full of oil through the strait as a gesture, while Israel claims to have killed the Revolutionary Guard's Navy commander orchestrating the shipping lane blockade. The conflict continues with ongoing air raid sirens across Israel and fatal attacks in Abu Dhabi, as Trump criticises Australia and other allies for insufficient support in the Hormuz Strait crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition is calling for an immediate halving of the federal fuel excise for three months, which would save motorists 25 cents per litre at the bowser. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor visited a Canberra service station where E10 was selling for $2.47 per litre and diesel at $3.15, proposing to fund the $1.5 billion cost by ending the electric car discount, reversing green hydrogen subsidies and pausing the home battery scheme. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has not ruled out the proposal, stating his government will consider cost of living measures in a responsible budgetary context.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kyle Sandilands has commenced Federal Court proceedings against his former employer ARN Media, seeking $85 million in damages. The legal case centres on a 20-minute on-air argument with Jackie O from approximately a month ago, though ARN Media wants to reference his entire employment history. The case is expected to continue for at least two months, with Sandilands stating he remains interested in returning to radio work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Minister Mark Butler and Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume discuss Australia's social media ban for children following a major US court judgment against tech companies. The ban has resulted in over 4 million accounts being deactivated, though concerns remain about children circumventing restrictions and tech companies' addictive design features. The eSafety Commissioner is investigating enforcement effectiveness, with reports expected soon on whether the world-leading legislation is adequately protecting young people from mental health impacts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Minister Mark Butler and Deputy Opposition Leader Jane Hume discuss Australia's social media ban for children following a major US court judgment against tech companies. The ban has resulted in over 4 million accounts being deactivated, though concerns remain about children circumventing restrictions and tech companies' addictive design features. The eSafety Commissioner is investigating enforcement effectiveness, with reports expected soon on whether the world-leading legislation is adequately protecting young people from mental health impacts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meta and Google have been found liable for designing platforms dangerous for teens and ordered to pay over $4 million in damages. Both companies plan to appeal the verdict, whilst Snapchat and TikTok settled similar claims before trial. Thousands of similar lawsuits have been filed against tech giants worldwide, with experts predicting this landmark case will open the floodgates for further litigation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 52-year-old Mount Compass man was allegedly stabbed in the back at Maiponga footy oval following a road rage incident. The victim sought help at the oval moments before football trials were due to begin and was airlifted to hospital in serious condition. A 27-year-old Maiponga man has been charged with assault causing harm, denied police bail, and will face court.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United States and Iran have provided conflicting accounts of peace negotiations, with President Trump claiming Iran remains interested in a deal while Iran's foreign minister denies any negotiation talks are taking place. Former National Security Advisor John Bolton suggests the two sides are exchanging views rather than actively negotiating, with a potential meeting in Pakistan under consideration. The focus has shifted to clearing the Strait of Hormuz for tanker traffic, with military operations ongoing to suppress Iranian capabilities including mines, anti-ship missiles and small boat swarms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle has intensified to a Category 4 system with wind gusts of 250 kilometres per hour, threatening Western Australia's Pilbara and Gascoyne coastlines. The massive storm has already impacted Karratha, Wickham and Dampier, with Exmouth and Carnarvon now in lockdown awaiting direct hits. Perth faces supercharged rain bands bringing up to 100 millimetres of rainfall over two days, five times the March monthly average, with flash flooding warnings in place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An 18-month-old boy survived being struck by an SUV on Princess Road in Balga, with the impact captured on security cameras. The toddler was flung metres down the road before being rushed to Perth Children's Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, including grazes and a potential head injury. The male driver in his 30s stopped immediately to help and is cooperating with police.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Maltese musical called Journey to Treasure Island is being staged in Blacktown, Western Sydney, where 20 children are learning Maltese through theatre performance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is in for a tough flu season with cases already surging as a highly contagious strain spreads across the country. More than 60 people have already died this year. Experts say a new vaccine will offer the best protection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ten years after she made history as the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup, Michelle Payne has been immortalised in bronze. She proudly unveiled a statue of herself at Flemington along with a powerful message for young women. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now the Prime Minister is bringing state and territory leaders together again to finally find an answer to the fuel crisis. Some drastic measures, similar to those during COVID, could be on the table as the government braces for a worst-case scenario. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Savannah Guthrie says her family is living in immense agony 53 days after her mother Nancy disappeared. In her first interview, the Melbourne born US television host broke down pleading for help, with the FBI still unable to provide the answers she so desperately needs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A major water main explosion at the West Ryde pumping station has left up to one million residents across Sydney's North Shore facing water restrictions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pope Leo has picked a Sydney bishop for a senior role within the Vatican and made him an Archbishop in the process. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new telephone hotline service called 'Raise It' has been introduced for NSW public hospitals, allowing patients to request urgent reviews of their care by senior health staff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police are ramping up their presence in the city targeting problem areas in a major crime crackdown. It is a move welcomed by local businesses, but the police union is warning the numbers do not stack up. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shocking security video has captured the moment a food delivery rider was struck by a ute in Sydney's west. Police are still on the hunt for the driver who sped away without stopping to help. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have a new video tonight of the moment two gunmen stormed an Auburn kebab shop and opened fire, injuring three people. Nine months on, police are still trying to find those responsible. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran says it does not intend to negotiate after it received a 15-point peace plan from the U.S. Tehran insists it's not in face-to-face talks with America, but today Donald Trump doubled down on a different story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The AFL is overhauling its controversial illicit drugs policy and now claims to have the strictest code in Australian sport. The three strikes format is out replaced by hair testing, but club coaches will still be kept in the dark. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prahran’s notorious Love Machine nightclub has been destroyed in an arson attack that has left innocent business owners caught in the crossfire. It is the latest drama for a venue that has been at the centre of major crimes for years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A teacher from one of Sydney's most prestigious schools is behind bars tonight, charged with child sex offences. The Newington College casual music teacher is accused of grooming a 14-year-old girl online, offering to pay money in exchange for sexual pictures. If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000. Advice and counselling for men concerned about their use of family violence: Men's Referral Service, 1300 766 491.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorians could soon face $7.50 coffees and food price hikes as the fuel crisis hits local supply chains. And with diesel drying up, farmers have an impossible choice between planting crops and cutting their losses. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Melbourne tradie has ended his shift behind bars after a sickening worksite attack that left a colleague with life-threatening injuries. The brickie is accused of mowing his victim down in a dispute believed to be linked to a bad break-up. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Consumer group Choice compared prices of 17 popular school lunchbox snacks across major Australian supermarkets. Aldi emerged as the cheapest option at $75 for the basket, while Woolworths and Coles both charged $90, and IGA was the most expensive at just over $100. The selection included items such as cheese slices, yoghurt and multi-pack chips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sydney Bishop Anthony Randazzo has been appointed as the Vatican's top legal expert, promoted to Archbishop to advise Pope Leo on Catholic law. The Broken Bay Diocese bishop, an expert in canon law, will relocate to Rome in three months to take up the position. He is the first Australian to fill a senior Vatican role since Cardinal George Pell, who died in 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Los Angeles jury has found Meta and Google guilty of negligence in designing their social media platforms, ruling that Instagram, Facebook and YouTube contributed to depression and anxiety in a young woman who became addicted to the apps as a child. The jury awarded the now 20-year-old woman $3 million US dollars in damages and imposed an additional $3 million in fines against the tech giants. Both companies plan to appeal the landmark decision, which could pave the way for thousands of similar legal challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flu cases across Australia have surged more than 160% in four weeks, jumping from 8,000 in February to over 23,000 in March 2025. January 2025 recorded 63 flu-related deaths, almost double the 35 deaths in January 2024. A highly contagious strain known as Super-K, which originated in America, is driving the spike, while declining vaccination rates raise concerns about increased vulnerability this winter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melbourne-born NBC television anchor Savannah Guthrie has given her first sit-down interview 53 days after her mother Nancy Guthrie was kidnapped from her Arizona home. In an emotional conversation with former NBC Today show co-host Hoda Kotb, Guthrie described the anguish and terror of imagining what her mother has endured during the eight-week ordeal. The full interview is airing on American television as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two men in their 20s have been arrested and charged with arson and conduct endangering life after allegedly firebombing an ice-cream shop in Williamstown just before 4am on Sunday morning. The attack forced residents living in upstairs apartments to evacuate the building.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Collinge, a 29-year-old casual music teacher at Newington College in Sydney, has been arrested and charged with child sex offences after allegedly grooming a 14-year-old girl online. The accused allegedly posed as a 17-year-old boy and encouraged the teenager to send sexually explicit material in exchange for money. The victim was not one of his students, and police were alerted by the child's parents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple has reached its 50th anniversary, marking five decades since Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started the company in a garage in the 1970s. The Sydney Opera House was illuminated with digital artwork created by Australian artists using iPads and Procreate to celebrate the milestone. The company's products, from Macs and iPods to the iPhone, have transformed how people work, listen to music and communicate, with approximately 500 billion selfies taken on iPhones last year alone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tropical Cyclone Narelle has been upgraded to a severe Category 4 system and is bearing down on Western Australia's coast, with wind gusts reaching 150 kilometres per hour and potential intensification to Category 5. Exmouth is bracing for gusts up to 250 kilometres per hour as residents evacuate or prepare emergency measures, with the cyclone expected to make landfall near Carnarvon. If it impacts three states, Narelle will be the first cyclone to do so since Cyclone Ingrid in 2005.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A humanoid robot called Figure 03 appeared at the White House alongside First Lady Melania Trump to deliver the opening address at a global education summit. The robot greeted world leaders at the Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition inaugural meeting. Melania Trump indicated that artificial intelligence will evolve beyond phones into personalised humanoid teachers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dame Sarah Mullally has been enthroned as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the Church of England's history. Around 2,000 people, including the Prince and Princess of Wales and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, attended the ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral. In her first sermon, she emphasised the importance of safeguarding against abuse in the Church.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ABC staff have returned to work after a 24-hour strike over a pay dispute, with broadcasting resuming just after midday. More than 1,000 employees walked off the job, forcing the broadcaster to use fill-in presenters and BBC content. Staff have not ruled out further industrial action if a pay agreement cannot be reached.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 30-year-old man has been arrested in Fairfield West and charged over the murder of David Khou, who was shot dead outside his Canley Heights home 15 months ago. Khou, aged 31, had links to Asian organised crime groups and the drug trade. This arrest marks the third person charged in connection with the gangland shooting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel is systematically destroying bridges over the Litani River and key infrastructure in southern Lebanon as part of a campaign to establish a 10-kilometre security zone, effectively annexing 10% of Lebanese territory. The destruction has displaced roughly one million people northward, with aid agencies describing the humanitarian situation as catastrophic and unprecedented. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has registered formal protests with Israeli counterparts, while Hezbollah has vowed to fight for every inch of the contested land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.