Sunrise

The Reserve Bank of Australia has raised interest rates again to combat inflation, with Governor Michelle Bullock identifying high domestic demand and the Middle East conflict's economic impact as key drivers. The decision has sparked political debate between Housing Minister Clare O'Neill and National Senate Leader Bridget McKenzie over government spending and fiscal responsibility. The rate increase marks the 15th rise under the Albanese government, intensifying pressure on Australian households already struggling with higher living costs and petrol prices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has increased the cash rate by 0.25% to 4.1%, marking the second rise in two months. Homeowners with a $700,000 mortgage will pay over $100 extra per month as the RBA attempts to control domestic inflation currently sitting at 3.8%. The board's split decision reflects concerns about both domestic inflation and potential global economic impacts from the Middle East conflict, with warnings that a recession remains a real risk if inflation is not contained.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Kent, Donald Trump's National Counterterrorism Centre director, has resigned over the Iran conflict, alleging Israeli officials and American media influencers deceived the US president through a misinformation campaign. Kent claims Iran posed no imminent threat to the US and that Trump was falsely led to believe attacking Iran would result in swift victory. Former Obama administration adviser Peter Loge discusses how this resignation may contribute to a narrative of an unravelling Trump administration and increasing public opposition to the war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Akubra celebrates 150 years of hat-making at its factory in Kempsey, New South Wales, approximately four and a half hours from Sydney. The manufacturing process involves 162 steps and 60 pairs of hands to create each handcrafted hat, with 37 different styles currently in production. The iconic Australian hat brand's factory tour reveals the craftsmanship behind hats that often last for decades.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All four coaches from The Voice Australia's 2025 season—Melanie C, Ronan Keating, Richard Marks, and Kate Miller-Heidke—are returning for the 2026 season. The coaches discuss their competitive dynamics, with Kate leveraging her 2025 win and Richard continuing his Grammy name-dropping tactics. Melanie C reveals she's spending more time in Australia after meeting her Sydney-based boyfriend, while the panel unanimously praises this year's talent pool as the best in the show's 15-year Australian history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2025 Academy Awards ceremony featured multiple reunions of iconic film casts, including Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor celebrating Moulin Rouge's 25th anniversary, and the Bridesmaids cast marking 15 years. Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for Sinners, while the vampire thriller also took home Oscars for cinematography, original score and original screenplay. Jessie Buckley won Best Actress for Hamnet, and One Battle After Another claimed Best Picture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New South Wales has launched digital birth certificates for residents aged 16 to 21 born in the state, accessible through the Service NSW app. The secure documents can be used for identity verification, employment applications, and obtaining licences including RSA and gambling certificates. The digital certificates feature enhanced security measures with changing holograms and data that cannot be reused or stored after verification.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kyle Sandilands faces potential contract termination from ARN Media following a two-week suspension for alleged on-air misconduct on The Kyle and Jackie O Show. The Australian Communications and Media Authority has found repeated breaches of broadcasting decency rules and imposed strict licence conditions on ARN Media. Sandilands has suggested he may purchase the radio network and is expected to pursue an $88 million legal battle if his contract is terminated.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia is expected to announce its second consecutive interest rate hike of 0.25%, with another increase anticipated in May. Economists warn that mortgage rates could climb to their highest levels in 15 years as domestic inflation sits at 3.8% and rising oil prices add further pressure. The RBA faces the challenge of slowing an overheated economy to bring inflation back to its 2.5% target, while economists argue the government needs to focus on productivity reforms, tax reform and regulatory improvements.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia releases 700 million litres of petrol and diesel from national reserves as regional fuel stations run dry, leaving farmers and truck drivers without supply. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Miles confirms the fuel should reach consumers within days, with particular emphasis on regional areas most affected by the shortage. The government is monitoring potential inflationary pressures from the Middle East conflict, including packaging cost increases of up to 50%, while the ACCC works to prevent price gouging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A reality TV production filming in Bondi has erected a controversial sign requesting only fit and attractive people appear in background shots, while asking others to stay out of frame. The sign has drawn criticism for contradicting the show's stated mission of addressing body image issues and social media pressures. Additionally, both the South Australian Premier and opposition leader have faced scrutiny for serving alcohol at pubs during their election campaign without holding required RSA certificates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia is expected to raise interest rates to 4.1% this afternoon, with 73% of economists predicting the hike. Inflation remains outside the RBA's target range at 3.8%, and unemployment continues to be very low. The increase would add approximately $100 per month to an average $650,000 mortgage, bringing rates close to the 2024 peak levels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor discusses his priorities following his leadership victory over Susan Ley, including the upcoming Farrah by-election where candidate Raissa Bukowski will contest the seat. Taylor addresses fuel security concerns, criticising the government's handling of domestic refineries and calling for Australian-produced fuel to remain in the country. He attributes rising inflation to government policy and anticipates another interest rate increase by the Reserve Bank of Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

St Patrick's Day celebrations take place at the Tea Cozy in the Rocks, Sydney, featuring special green emerald scones and shamrock cream made with matcha. The café offers a family-friendly alternative to pub celebrations, serving traditional Irish-inspired treats based on the owner's grandmother's recipes. The segment includes an attempt at 'splitting the G', an Irish drinking tradition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian actress Rose Byrne competes for Best Actress at the Oscars, wearing Christian Dior on a sweltering red carpet in Los Angeles. The greenhouse-like covered carpet traps heat as A-list stars including Timothée Chalamet, Jacob Elordi, and Jessie Buckley arrive for Hollywood's biggest night. Red emerges as the dominant colour trend, with fashion experts noting the Oscars sets global fashion precedents for the following 12 months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E-bikes and e-scooters are rapidly increasing on Australian roads, with fatal accidents rising, including two teenagers who died in Brisbane South last week when their e-bike collided with a motorbike. A new nationwide school programme from Drake Driver Awareness teaches students about safe riding laws, the dangers of modifications, peer pressure impacts, and decision-making strategies. The education focuses on brain development factors that make young people, particularly boys, more susceptible to risky behaviour and peer influence when riding these devices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple has launched the MacBook Neo in Australia, starting at $899, approximately half the price of a regular MacBook Air. The laptop is powered by a chip from last year's iPhone and is designed for everyday tasks like streaming, browsing, emails and light editing, though it lacks a backlit keyboard and requires extra payment for a fingerprint sensor. The entry-level MacBook represents Apple's move into the sub-$1,000 laptop market, traditionally dominated by Windows devices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New South Wales is introducing reforms to crack down on controversial real estate practices like under quoting and dummy bidding, with agents facing fines up to $110,000 for misleading buyers. The proposed changes would require every property listing to include a clear price guide explaining how the estimate was calculated. The Australian Property Institute is advocating for independent valuations rather than agent-provided estimates to ensure transparency and fairness for both buyers and sellers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regional Australian communities are experiencing severe fuel shortages as Middle East conflict disrupts supply chains. Service stations in North West Victoria have run completely dry of diesel and unleaded petrol, threatening agricultural harvests and food supply. Farmers and emergency services are calling for government prioritisation of fuel distribution to essential industries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United States is calling on international allies including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK and potentially Australia to send naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz to secure global oil trade routes. The US has conducted airstrikes on military targets at Iran's Karg Island, which handles approximately 90 per cent of Iran's crude oil exports, while deliberately leaving oil infrastructure intact. Former Navy SEAL Mike Cirelli discusses the strategic importance of the strait as a global energy chokepoint and the potential for coalition forces to stabilise the region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia faces critical fuel shortages in regional areas as the government's decision to temporarily allow higher sulphur fuel sales awaits final paperwork approval. Service stations in communities like Happy Valley in northwest Victoria have run out of fuel, forcing rationing to $50 per vehicle, while farmers warn they cannot wait much longer for supplies. The crisis has sparked debate over fuel reserves, refinery closures, and concerns about flow-on effects to the plastics manufacturing industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major Australian technology companies including Atlassian, WiseTech, and Block are cutting thousands of jobs as artificial intelligence demonstrates significant productivity gains. Atlassian is eliminating 1,600 positions globally with 500 affecting Australian workers, while WiseTech is reducing 2,000 roles and Block is cutting 40% of its workforce. The tech sector job losses coincide with substantial share price declines, with Atlassian down 50% year-to-date and WiseTech falling 45% over 12 months, affecting many Australians' superannuation investments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Madame Tussauds Sydney has unveiled new wax figures including Taylor Swift, G Flip, Avatar's Jake Sully, and Jacob Elordi. G Flip attended their own figure unveiling, where guests reportedly couldn't tell the artist apart from their wax replica. The new additions coincide with Oscars Day celebrations at the popular Darling Harbour attraction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three Iranian women's football players have decided to return home after their delegation sought asylum in Australia following refusal to sing the national anthem during the Asian Cup. Security concerns mount as Donald Trump considers military action in Iran, with USS Tripoli and 2,000 Marines potentially deploying to the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions. Security experts warn that Australian business executives and travellers could become targets for kidnapping or cyber attacks as Iran seeks alternative funding methods through proxy groups.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia faces mounting pressure to raise interest rates as oil price shocks compound existing inflation concerns, with economists predicting potential rate hikes starting Tuesday. Rising fuel costs are expected to flow through to everyday consumer goods, pushing inflation towards 5%, while Centrelink payment increases of $22.20 per fortnight take effect on 20 March to provide relief for pensioners and disability recipients. Economic growth forecasts remain pessimistic at approximately 1.7%, potentially dropping to 1% if oil prices remain above $100 per barrel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tour de Cure cycling event travels through Tintaldra in Victoria's high country, with riders stopping at a local pub along the Murray River. Commonwealth Bank has supported Tour de Cure for 12 years, raising $22 million and achieving 50 breakthroughs, with 8,000 staff members participating annually in the charity cycling initiative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers addresses concerns about three Iranian women's football team members returning home after seeking sanctuary in Australia, following their refusal to sing the national anthem during the Asian Cup. Chalmers discusses the government's response to record-high petrol prices, including increased ACCC surveillance, doubled penalties for fuel retailers, and the recent $16 million fine issued to Mobil for misleading behaviour. The Treasurer outlines measures to combat price gouging and cost of living pressures, including the release of fuel reserves to regional areas and upcoming legislation to increase maximum penalties to $100 million.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump says many countries will send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid the US and Israel's war with Iran.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump says many countries will send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid the US and Israel's war with Iran.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump says many countries will send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid the US and Israel's war with Iran.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three members of the Iranian football team who were granted protection in Australia have decided to return to their home country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major Australian companies including Microsoft, Commonwealth Bank, WiseTech Global, Block, and Atlassian are cutting thousands of jobs as they invest heavily in artificial intelligence and automation. While KPMG research shows only 10% of CEOs expect to reduce headcount due to AI, the technology sector is experiencing significant workforce reductions, with concerns mounting about junior-level positions disappearing before workers can develop foundational skills. Professions requiring physical presence and uniquely human skills like empathy, intuition, and creativity—such as hairdressing, healthcare, and education—are considered safest from AI replacement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social media users are filming themselves panic-buying excessive amounts of petrol during fuel distribution concerns, while farmers in regional areas struggle to access diesel and fuel supplies. The government maintains there is adequate fuel stock and reserves, but distribution challenges are affecting remote service stations. Food security concerns have emerged regarding fertiliser supplies and agricultural production if trade disruptions continue long-term.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A woman was filmed picking lemons from a front yard on the Gold Coast that did not belong to her. Police indicate she could technically be charged if a complaint is filed, though the legal situation remains unclear regarding fruit from unfenced properties or branches extending over property lines. The incident has sparked debate about property rights and minor theft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tour de Cure's 20th anniversary ride features more than 200 cyclists undertaking a nine-day, 1,400km journey from Canberra through Victoria to Tasmania to raise funds for cancer research. The riders departed Canberra and reached Jindabyne on day one, battling headwinds over the 180km route. Simplicity Funerals contributed $20,000 to the cause, with the route continuing through the Snowy Mountains and Thredbo before reaching Corryong, where Commonwealth Bank and Rotary are hosting a community barbecue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sydney's $2 billion M12 motorway has officially opened, connecting the M7 to the Western Sydney International Airport. The 16-kilometre stretch is toll-free, with the first drivers escorted onto the road at 5am this morning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sleep deprivation affects every system in the body, from increasing risks of Alzheimer's and diabetes to impacting heart health and gut function. Getting seven and a half to eight hours of sleep nightly is essential, as the body uses this time to clear toxins through systems like the glymphatic system in the brain. Improving sleep by just one hour can increase testosterone and thyroid levels by up to 10% within a week, reduce daily caloric intake by 270 calories, and significantly improve mood, energy levels and cognitive function.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand is considering emergency powers not used since 1979 to force motorists to nominate one day per week where they cannot use their vehicle, with hefty fines for non-compliance. Australia is introducing blended fuel to address the current petrol crisis, while storing only 30-35 days of fuel compared to the IEA recommendation of 90 days. A new survey reveals 28% of Australians are using AI chatbots like ChatGPT for relationship advice, raising concerns about the reliability and safety of such guidance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meta's latest smart glasses feature augmented reality technology that displays directions, text messages, and cooking instructions directly in the user's field of vision through a holographic-style interface. The glasses include live captions, voice control, and can be operated using a neural wristband that reads electrical signals from finger and hand movements. Priced at over $1,000 AUD for the AR version, the technology raises privacy concerns as the glasses can record surroundings, though users can opt out of data sharing with Meta contractors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryan Gosling stars in Project Hail Mary, a $200 million space film about a lone astronaut on an impossible mission to save the sun 11.9 light years from Earth. The film features Gosling's character meeting an alien companion nicknamed Rocky, with critics comparing the movie to this generation's ET. Gosling made the film as a 'core memory' for his two daughters and also addresses a hand gesture he regretted from La La Land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tour de Cure's 1,600-kilometre cycling journey from Canberra to Hobart features participants including Young Australian of the Year Ned Brockman, Australian cycling legend Sarah Roy, and leukaemia survivor Andrew, who has been living with the disease for 10 years. The ride raises funds for cancer research and treatment development, with Andrew crediting Tour de Cure fundraising for enabling the development of the medicine that has kept him alive. The Leukaemia Foundation partners with Tour de Cure to provide support services for patients and their families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two brothers, Mohammed and Abdul Zraka, were shot during a brawl involving approximately 15 people at Chester Hill in Western Sydney at around 10.30pm. One brother was shot in the leg and the other in the back, with both transported to Westmead Hospital after police intercepted their black Audi during a short pursuit. The brothers have alleged links to the Alamuddin crime family, and police are investigating the circumstances of the fight and shooting as part of ongoing Sydney gangland conflicts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, were killed in a collision between an e-bike and a motorcycle in Logan, Queensland. The teenagers were riding together on an e-bike without a headlight when they collided with a motorcycle that was legally overtaking another vehicle. The Queensland Government is reviewing age and licensing restrictions for e-bikes following this incident.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A teenager has died following a high-speed crash in a suspected stolen Skoda at Hoppers Crossing in Melbourne. The vehicle, believed to have been stolen from Maidstone, was allegedly pursuing another car in an attempted carjacking when it collided with a ute and Ford Falcon sedan at an intersection near Pacific Werribee Plaza shopping centre, causing the Skoda to roll multiple times. Two 16-year-old girls and a 17-year-old boy fled the scene before being apprehended by police and are now under guard in hospital with minor injuries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran's new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has declared the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed, marking his first public statement since taking power four days ago. Six vessels have been attacked in the Gulf, including tankers carrying Iraqi oil struck by explosive-laden Iranian boats, while oil facilities in Bahrain and Oman have also been hit. Australia's government has lowered fuel standards for 60 days to allow 100 million litres of higher-sulphur fuel into the market as fishing trawlers report diesel shortages ahead of Easter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A vehicle was rammed into Temple Israel synagogue in West Bloomfield, Michigan, starting a fire before the driver reportedly opened fire. Armed security at the site engaged with the shooter, who is now believed to be dead. Early childhood students at the synagogue's school have been evacuated and are being reunited with families as authorities secure the scene and investigate whether the shooter acted alone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One in seven Australians live with signs of kidney disease, but proper nutrition can help support kidney function. Kidneys filter waste from blood, activate vitamin D, balance electrolytes, help produce red blood cells, and control blood pressure. Excessive salt intake damages kidney blood vessels over time, while foods like berries, pineapple, cabbage, beans, and good fats from a Mediterranean-style diet can nourish and protect kidney health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regional Australia is experiencing severe fuel shortages with prices reaching $3.40 per litre in some areas. Rural service stations are rationing petrol or running dry entirely, while fuel suppliers face fines up to $100 million for price gouging, with Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirming some penalties have already been issued. Independent service station owners in regional areas report no certainty on future fuel supplies, with panic buying causing some stations to sell double or triple their normal volumes, creating supply chain disruptions that have left businesses without fuel for days.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seven Sport presenter Mel McLaughlin has revealed her lung cancer diagnosis in December, requiring surgery to remove half her lung despite being a lifetime non-smoker. Lung cancer is Australia's deadliest cancer, claiming more lives than breast and prostate cancer combined, with many patients showing no symptoms until advanced stages. Australia's National Lung Cancer Screening Program launched on 1 July 2025, targeting at-risk individuals aged 50-70 who are current or recent smokers, with over 65,000 Australians already screened in the first eight months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seven Sport presenter Mel McLaughlin has revealed her lung cancer diagnosis in December, requiring surgery to remove half her lung despite being a lifetime non-smoker. Lung cancer is Australia's deadliest cancer, claiming more lives than breast and prostate cancer combined, with many patients showing no symptoms until advanced stages. Australia's National Lung Cancer Screening Program launched on 1 July 2025, targeting at-risk individuals aged 50-70 who are current or recent smokers, with over 65,000 Australians already screened in the first eight months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.