Sunrise

A new report reveals the average cost of sending a child to a public school in a metropolitan area in 2026 is more than $113,000 over 13 years. Perth offers the most affordable government schooling, Canberra has the cheapest Catholic education, and Adelaide provides the most affordable independent schooling. Melbourne ranks as the most expensive for both government and independent schools, while Brisbane tops the cost for Catholic education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Flack family of Claremont, Queensland, are facing a massive clean-up bill potentially reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars after floodwaters destroyed their first farm just six months after purchasing it. The flooding has devastated the region, with boundary and internal fences destroyed across multiple properties, livestock wandering injured and displaced, and $22,000 worth of hay ruined when water entered a shed that hadn't flooded in 30 years. Despite their losses, the community has rallied together, with neighbours offering tractors, help, and even cleaning out flood-damaged homes while owners were away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Airtime Freestyle Motocross operates from their workshop base in Tallebudgera Valley on the Gold Coast, where team riders Kane Saul and Zach Cuthbert perform extreme aerial tricks and stunts. The sport is considered one of the most dangerous in the world, with performers regularly sustaining injuries, including team members who have undergone dozens of surgeries. The team travels across Australia performing shows featuring high-risk motorcycle stunts and aerial manoeuvres.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin Rudd has announced he will step down as Australia's ambassador to the United States at the end of March 2026 after three years in the role. Former Labor senator Stephen Conroy and former defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon are among the top contenders being discussed to replace him in Washington. Former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos suggests the position requires someone with ministerial experience and strong networking abilities, noting that Fitzgibbon has the personality, defence background, and established US connections that make him a strong candidate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announces that Dr Kevin Rudd AC will conclude his posting as Australia's Ambassador to the United States at the end of March 2026 to become global president of the Asia Society think tank. The announcement also confirms Thursday 22nd January as the National Day of Mourning for victims of the Bondi Chabad community attack, with flags to be flown at half-mast across Commonwealth buildings. Albanese acknowledges ongoing emergencies in Victoria and North Queensland, thanking volunteers and emergency services responding to bushfires and floods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian farmer Greg Conlon describes fighting bushfires that destroyed 80% of his property in Molesworth, where he successfully saved his cattle herd by calming them during a sudden wind change that could have driven them into metal stockyards. More than 15,000 livestock are estimated to have died across Victoria's bushfire crisis, with many farmers losing all their pastures and hay supplies essential for feeding animals through the dry season. Conlon is raising funds through GoFundMe to help other farmers who have lost everything, including feed for their livestock.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister has recalled politicians from summer break to pass gun and hate speech reforms following the Bondi massacre. The proposed legislation includes a controversial exemption allowing direct quotes from religious texts, sparking debate about religious freedom versus hate speech protections. Federal MP Rebecca White and two Labor colleagues have apologised after being overheard playing an inappropriate game discussing Liberal MPs at a Hobart festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pro-Am dancing pairs professional dancers with amateur partners to compete in ballroom competitions. At Makka Dance Studio, several Pro-Am pairs demonstrate jive and quickstep routines, with amateur dancers Julie, Sandra, and Anya partnered with professionals Matthew, Alan, and Andre. The group is preparing to travel to the UK in May for an international competition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A kangaroo joey unexpectedly hopped into the deep end of a water ride at Funfields theme park in Whittlesea, north of Melbourne, before the park opened. The joey took a quick swim before jumping out and leaving the area. Staff ensured the water was clean before guests arrived for the day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hamnet is a historical drama film starring Paul Mescal as William Shakespeare, Jessie Buckley as his wife Agnes, and Jacoby Jupe as their son Hamnet. The film tells the tragically short life story of Shakespeare's only son, who inspired the famous play Hamlet. Jessie Buckley is favoured to win Best Actress at the Golden Globes for her portrayal of motherhood and grief in what's being described as a major tearjerker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria's bushfire emergency has claimed its first life, with a body found near a vehicle in Longwood. Multiple blazes remain out of control across the state, with 390,000 hectares burnt and hundreds of structures destroyed. CFA volunteers have raised concerns about inadequate equipment and aging fire trucks, some up to 30 years old, whilst the Victorian Premier defends increased funding including an $80 million injection before fire season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fox in Kazakhstan attempted to steal a sled full of fish from ice fishermen, dragging it across the ice. The determined animal refused to let go even when one of the fishermen caught up to it. The incident was captured on video showing the fox's persistent efforts to claim the catch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2026 Golden Globes ceremony features a new red carpet setup at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, with the arrivals taking place in a specially constructed tent due to ongoing construction. Five Australian actors are nominated across multiple categories, including Jacob Elordi with dual nominations for Best Supporting Actor in Frankenstein and Lead Actor in a Limited TV Series for The Narrow Road to the Deep North, Rose Byrne as the favourite for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, Joel Edgerton for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy for Train Dreams, Sarah Snook for Best Female Actor in a Limited TV Series for All Her Fault, and musician Nick Cave for Best Original Song featured in Train Dreams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meta reports removing over 500,000 teen accounts from Instagram and Facebook following Australia's new social media age restrictions, though the company criticises the ban's effectiveness in improving youth safety. A survey reveals Australians rate local councils highest among the three tiers of government at 56% approval, compared to 46% for state governments and 39% for federal government. Political commentators debate both the practical impact of social media age restrictions and whether Australia should reduce its three tiers of government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amsterdam streets transformed into ice rinks as freezing temperatures caused extreme icy conditions in the Netherlands. Pedestrians struggled to maintain their footing on the slippery surfaces, while cyclists were forced to abandon their bikes due to the treacherous conditions. The severe winter weather presents a stark contrast to the extreme heat being experienced in Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fitness trends for 2025 are shifting towards wellness and sustainability, with less emphasis on aesthetics and more focus on how people feel. Longevity fitness programmes for older adults have emerged as the number one trend, while Pilates continues to grow in popularity, particularly among women, offering a combination of strength and mobility without joint impact. Strength training remains a baseline activity, but the motivation is changing towards future-proofing the body for long-term health rather than appearance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy 10, Australia's biggest zipline attraction, opens at Beechmont on the Gold Coast, positioned 400 metres above Lamington National Park. The zipline reaches speeds of 70 kilometres per hour and offers views over the national park. The attraction opens with sold-out crowds for its inaugural day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British content creator Alex Hendy, known as 'The Schooner Scorer', has built a following of over half a million people by travelling the globe rating beers and searching for the perfect 10.0 score. His method involves visiting pubs and venues, sculling a local beer on camera in a single take, and providing an unbiased rating whilst showcasing the venue. He balances his beer-tasting mission with daily running, operates a 'drinking club with a fitness problem', and hosts events to bring people together, with plans to potentially launch his own beer and pub ventures in the future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian doctors are pushing for weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wagovi and Mounjaro to be added to the PBS for obesity treatment. The health minister has received recommendations to list Wagovi on the PBS for people with a BMI of 35 and established cardiovascular disease, with price negotiations underway. Currently, more than 400,000 Australians pay private prices of up to $5,000 annually for these medications, with an estimated 6 million Australians suffering from obesity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Charing Cross Hospital in London to meet with NHS health workers and volunteers. The royal couple, who serve as joint patrons of NHS charities, spoke with staff about winter virus season pressures and met volunteers who assist with patient care. This marked their first public appearance since Christmas Day 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two teenagers were arrested following a violent altercation at Henley Beach in Adelaide yesterday afternoon. Dozens of families seeking relief from 43-degree heat witnessed the brawl, which occurred around 3pm and involved biting and physical assault. Both youths have been charged and bailed to appear in youth court next month.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Actor Awards (formerly The Sags) nominations have been announced, with 'One Battle After Another' starring Leonardo DiCaprio leading with seven nominations. Australian actors Rose Byrne and Brisbane's Jacob Elordi have received major nominations for their performances in 'If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You' and 'Frankenstein' respectively. The ceremony serves as a key indicator for upcoming Oscar nominations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sydney weekly rents have increased by more than $40 in the past year, rising approximately 5% to above $2,000 per week in parts of the eastern suburbs and North Sydney. The cheapest rental suburbs include Karamah, Tarmor, Katoomba, Cabramatta, Canley Vale and Lamia, while the most vacant rentals are found in Currajong Heights, Menangle Park, Bidwell, Barangaroo, North St Mary's, Mount Karengai, East Gardens and Zetland. Property experts predict no relief in 2025, with supply being chronically outweighed by demand across Sydney's rental market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brigitte Bardot, the world-renowned screen icon and singer, has died from cancer at age 91 at her home in southern France on December 28th. Thousands of fans lined the streets of France to farewell the Hollywood legend, who was laid to rest in a sustainable wicker coffin covered with yellow and orange gerbera flowers. Her funeral was attended by her husband, son and loved ones in a simple ceremony as she had requested.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Dreamliner flight from Adelaide to San Francisco was forced to make an unscheduled stopover in Honolulu, Hawaii, for refuelling after requiring extra fuel due to extreme heat conditions during takeoff. Adelaide experienced temperatures of 43 degrees Celsius, a six-year high, with Port Augusta forecast to reach 47 degrees. South Australian authorities have declared a total fire ban in the mid-north with concerns about dry lightning and dangerous fire conditions expected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's headline inflation has dropped from 3.8% to 3.4% in November, with underlying inflation falling to 3.2%. The decline has reduced expectations of a February interest rate hike, though inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target. The RBA is scheduled to meet on 18 February, with interest rates expected to remain unchanged.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brigitte Bardot, the world-renowned screen icon and singer, has died from cancer at age 91 at her home in southern France on December 28th. Thousands of fans lined the streets of France to farewell the Hollywood legend, who was laid to rest in a sustainable wicker coffin covered with yellow and orange gerbera flowers. Her funeral was attended by her husband, son and loved ones in a simple ceremony as she had requested.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump's administration has announced regime change in Venezuela and expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, prompting warnings from Danish officials that such moves could signal the end of NATO. The White House is framing these actions through the lens of the Monroe Doctrine, citing national security concerns and preventing Chinese influence in strategically important regions. Former CIA agent Mike Baker suggests that while an invasion of Greenland is unlikely, these developments are strengthening NATO's resolve to take greater responsibility for its own defence and strategic planning independent of US leadership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CES 2025 in Las Vegas showcases robotics as the dominant technology trend, with LG's Cloyd prototype demonstrating laundry folding and cooking capabilities, and Roborock's Saros vacuum featuring stair-climbing technology. Display technology advances include ultra-thin wallpaper TVs from LG and Hisense's XR10 projector with liquid cooling and 300-inch projection capability. Retail assistant robots like Harley are already operational in China, indicating a shift towards practical consumer robotics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Olympic swimming champion Liesel Jones, Australia's first female swimmer to compete at four Olympic Games, has lost 25 kilograms through medically-assisted weight loss. The nine-time Olympic medalist discusses her decision to use medical weight loss support through Juniper, addressing the stigma around such treatments and revealing she struggled with PCOS, high liver enzymes and subclinical hypothyroidism. Jones emphasises the importance of combining medical assistance with nutritional education and building sustainable healthy habits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seven men have been charged over an alleged $8 million international car theft operation in Brisbane that targeted Toyota vehicles. The syndicate allegedly stole approximately 60 Toyota Land Cruisers, Prados and RAV4s over six weeks using a hacking device that drills into vehicles to disable security systems. Police allege the stolen cars were shipped to the United Arab Emirates hidden in shipping containers, with the men facing almost 400 charges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahmed Al Ahmed, the 43-year-old father of two who tackled and disarmed one of the gunmen during the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people, has departed Australia for the United States to receive further medical treatment. He was shot during the confrontation and posted from Los Angeles airport thanking supporters and requesting prayers, appearing in good spirits with cabin crew.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 17-year-old boy is in critical condition after being stabbed during a violent brawl at a house party in Shalvey, Sydney's west. The incident occurred shortly after 10pm when approximately 40 people were involved in a fight on a driveway. Police riot squad and dog unit were deployed to control the crowd, and investigations are ongoing with no arrests made.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seven men have been charged over an alleged $8 million international car theft operation in Brisbane that targeted Toyota vehicles. The syndicate allegedly stole approximately 60 Toyota Land Cruisers, Prados and RAV4s over six weeks using a hacking device that drills into vehicles to disable security systems. Police allege the stolen cars were shipped to the United Arab Emirates hidden in shipping containers, with the men facing almost 400 charges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia faces extreme weather conditions with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees across Victoria and South Australia, bringing the most dangerous fire conditions since the 2019 Black Summer bushfires. Simultaneously, a tropical low in the Coral Sea has a 35% chance of developing into a cyclone, threatening far north Queensland which has already received over a metre of rain. The flooding has killed more than 16,000 head of livestock, prompting a $38 million federal and state government rescue package.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CES, the world's largest consumer electronics show in Las Vegas, showcases emerging technology including Samsung's Galaxy Z Trifold smartphone with the biggest screen ever on a mobile device, the Freestyle Plus AI-powered projector with auto-focus and obstacle detection, and LEGO's smart bricks that react to children's play without screens. The exhibition features design-focused speakers, concept devices like a vinyl record player with a touchscreen display, and a heavy emphasis on robotics and AI integration across consumer products.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 243-kilogram bluefin tuna sold for a record $4.8 million at a Tokyo fish market. Kyoshi Kimura, operator of a popular sushi chain known as the 'tuna king', purchased the fish at the new year's auction, where the year's first tuna is believed to bring good luck. The multi-million dollar fish was sliced up and served to customers at his restaurants shortly after the auction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian actors Jacob Elordi and Sarah Snook won at the 2026 Critics' Choice Awards in Los Angeles. Brisbane-born Elordi, 28, received Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Frankenstein, marking his first major acting award. Snook won Best Actress in a Limited Series for her role in All Her Fault.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has warned multiple countries including Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, Iran and Greenland could face US military intervention similar to Venezuela. The United Nations has condemned the Venezuelan operation as a breach of international law, while questions arise about the UN's power to constrain Trump's actions. Additional topics include a proposed compulsory third-party insurance scheme for e-bike owners in New South Wales following approximately 40 national deaths, and a viral incident where a theatre patron demanded security remove audience members singing during a Broadway performance of Mamma Mia!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cake Picnic is launching in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens in March, following successful events in the United States. The social gathering requires attendees to bring their own cake for entry, operating as a baker's version of a clothes swap where participants share and eat different cakes together.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A resurfaced clip of Larry David sparks debate about how long it's socially acceptable to wish someone a Happy New Year. David argues three days is the maximum, while others suggest the first week or even the entire month of January is appropriate, particularly when seeing someone for the first time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's former president, is in custody at a New York detention centre following a CIA-led military operation that extracted him from Venezuela in the dead of night. The Trump administration has announced it will run Venezuela until a stable government is installed, whilst China and Russia have condemned the intervention and demanded Maduro's immediate release. The operation involved months of intelligence gathering, including a double agent within Maduro's inner circle, and has sparked debate about the precedent it sets for international military intervention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New childcare reforms guarantee all eligible Australian families three days of subsidised childcare per week, removing activity requirements for the first 72 hours of fortnightly care. Households earning up to a combined $530,000 can now access the subsidy without meeting work or study requirements for these initial three days, with activity tests only applying to additional days of care. The changes aim to help parents return to the workforce while providing children access to regulated early childhood education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert Irwin has grown a moustache during the 2026 holiday period, embracing his new facial hair look with references to Top Gun and Magnum P.I. His mother Terri Irwin is not enthusiastic about the new moustache, which features a hint of ginger colouring reminiscent of Tom Selleck's iconic look.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured in an extraordinary CIA-led operation and transported to New York. The mission involved Delta Force and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, supported by recruited assets within the Maduro government and a cyber attack that plunged Caracas into darkness at 2:01am local time. Former CIA agent Mike Baker explains the extensive planning, intelligence gathering, and rehearsals required for such high-risk operations, drawing parallels to the bin Laden raid.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

iFLY features Australia's largest wind tunnel where instructors and competitors practice indoor skydiving. Competitor Donnie demonstrates advanced flying techniques, racing through specific patterns at high speeds as part of competitive wind tunnel flying. Beginners start in the traditional belly-down skydiving position to learn body control and wind navigation before progressing to more complex manoeuvres.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billy Joel performed a two-song set with a cover band in Florida, marking his first stage appearance since revealing his brain disorder diagnosis in February 2023. BTS, the South Korean boy band, has confirmed their return as a full group in 2026 with plans for a new album and tour after a three-year hiatus. Taylor Swift has made history by joining the Beatles as the only acts to achieve the biggest album of the year in two consecutive years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major film studios are releasing highly anticipated sequels throughout 2025, including The Devil Wears Prada 2 with Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway in April, Marvel's Spider-Man 4 and Avengers Doomsday, Scream 7 in February, and Practical Magic 2 in September. Family franchises return with Toy Story 5 in June, a Super Mario Galaxy film in April, and The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping in November. Additional sequels include new instalments of Mortal Kombat and Jumanji releasing throughout the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians are increasingly embracing traditional hobbies like crochet, baking and gardening as they seek alternatives to screen time. Google searches for crochet kits have surged 250% over two years, while searches for sourdough starter and gardening gloves have doubled. The trend reflects a growing interest in hands-on, creative activities traditionally associated with older generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brisbane Lions co-captain Lachie Neale has stepped down from his leadership role following personal issues, including a marriage breakdown with long-term partner Jules. The 32-year-old midfielder made the decision after 12 months of consideration, acknowledging he let his family down and needs to rebuild trust. The club now faces the question of whether Harris Andrews will continue as sole captain or if another player will step into the co-captaincy vacancy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.