February 29 is the rarest day for birthdays in Australia | The Canberra Times

Researchers have developed a teaching guide on menstrual health for remote Indigenous communities to break down stigma, led by University of Queensland's Minnie King and Nina Lansbury. The guide includes interactive resources and aims to improve health literacy and advocate for dignity and support mechanisms. The project has already sparked positive shifts in attitudes, promoting conversations around menstrual health and providing inclusive education for all students. Full Article

Novak Djokovic has signed up to play the Brisbane International in his quest for a record 25th grand slam title, joining a field that includes Nick Kyrgios, Grigor Dimitrov, and other top players. The ATP event runs from December 29 to January 5, leading up to the start of the Australian Open on January 12. Djokovic, ranked seventh and one title away from Margaret Court's record, is coming off a frustrating season but recently won...

A new black box warning will be added to the asthma drug montelukast, marketed as Singulair, after reports of three suicides in Australia. Families have lobbied for over a decade due to side effects like nightmares and suicidal thoughts, with the TGA approving the warning to align with international regulators. Concerns over neuropsychiatric risks have led to further investigations and calls for cautionary advisory labels on the drug's packaging. Full Article

Analysts predict a modest improvement in Australia's economy, with a 0.3% expansion expected in the September quarter, up from 0.2% in June. Despite weak GDP readings, a slight return to health is anticipated, supported by strong government spending and easing inflation. While some economists forecast a rate cut in February, others believe the economy's strengthening growth may delay any monetary easing. Full Article

Indonesia and Australia are in negotiations for a draft deal that could see the remaining members of the Bali Nine drug smuggling ring, including Scott Rush, Matthew Norman, Si-Yi Chen, Martin Stephens, and Michael Czugaj, returning to Australia. The Indonesian minister for law, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, expressed hope for a final agreement by December, citing the need to work through legal impediments. Australia's Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, emphasized the significance of the proposal and...

Interim coach Tom Sermanni criticizes The Matildas for not planning well for the future, as a depleted squad faces Taiwan after losses to Brazil. Many key players have left, leading to opportunities for A-League Women stars and young talents. Sermanni emphasizes the need for balance between developing new players and chasing results, hoping for continuity in the program under a permanent coach. Full Article