Benjamin Law muses on what – and who – makes a good portrait | The Canberra Times

Ben Simmons's time with the Brooklyn Nets appears to be over as the sides work toward a buyout of his contract. The three-time All-Star has struggled with injuries, playing only 33 games this season and averaging 6.2 points and 6.9 assists. Simmons, who is making $40 million this season, is expected to meet with Cleveland and the Los Angeles Clippers about signing with them for the rest of the season. Full Article

North Queensland is facing ongoing flooding as the federal government expands financial aid to support more affected towns, with major flooding warnings issued from Cairns to Rockhampton due to heavy rainfall. The Burdekin local disaster management group has issued an emergency warning for Giru, with flood levels reaching 2.93m and expected to hit 3m today. Relief efforts are underway, including personal hardship payments and disaster recovery funding arrangements, as the rain is forecasted to ease...

President Trump expressed support for AUKUS after Australia paid $798m to the US as part of a deal for nuclear-powered submarines. Defence Minister Richard Marles met with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to solidify the commitment, with Hegseth stating Trump backed the agreement. Marles emphasized the importance of AUKUS in enhancing Australian capability and strengthening American force posture in the region during his visit to the US. Full Article

The International Criminal Court called on member states to oppose US President Trump's sanctions, criticizing the move as an attempt to undermine its judicial work. European allies, including Germany and the European Commission, voiced support for the court. The White House issued the order in response to the ICC's arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza, drawing criticism from human rights groups and court officials preparing for potential sanctions....

Julianne Hough, previously intentional about dating, has adjusted her approach for 2025, embracing a more playful and fun attitude which has led to a joyful month. Despite wanting to build a family with a male partner, Julianne has admitted to being open about her sexuality. Content with her current state, she remains open to whatever the future may hold. Full Article

The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) sacked former women's captain Laijipa Naulivou four days into her job as Director of Rugby after she made controversial remarks about gay women in rugby, stating they should be excluded from the team. Naulivou cited a report on lesbianism in European women's rugby as the basis for her comments. FRU terminated her position, emphasizing their commitment to professional standards and rejecting any form of discrimination, as the Wallaroos gear up...