Penny Wong downplays Trump tariff concerns after first formal talks with Marco Rubio

Australia's Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is considering recognizing a Palestinian state, a move criticized by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as "disappointing." Albanese stated that the recognition is a matter of timing, with discussions involving leaders from France, the UK, Canada, and the Palestinian Authority, aiming for a decision potentially by the UN General Assembly in late September. Want More Context? 🔎

Teenager Luke Littler triumphed over Belgium's Mike de Decker 8-4 to win the Australian Darts Masters in Wollongong, following victories against Damon Heta and Stephen Bunting. Littler, who lost in last year's final, expressed his delight at the win after a challenging season, and both players will next compete in the New Zealand Darts Masters. Want More Context? 🔎

Markets anticipate a cut in Australia's interest rates at the upcoming Reserve Bank meeting, driven by recent benign inflation figures. Although most economists support a 25 basis point reduction, RBA Governor Michele Bullock may temper expectations amid concerns about potential inflation risks and external influences from the US Federal Reserve's policies. Want More Context? 🔎

Australia and New Zealand Leaders' MeetingPrime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Christopher Luxon participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at a war memorial in Arrowtown, New Zealand, highlighting the strong ties between the two nations. Following productive talks in Queenstown, both leaders emphasized their friendship and commitment to collaboration on various issues before Albanese returned to Australia for further engagements. Want More Context? 🔎

Three cars collided with a motorbike on the M1 Pacific Motorway near Brunswick Heads, resulting in the rider's body being discovered by the public shortly after the incident at around 7:15 PM on Sunday. The motorway was closed for investigation, with the car drivers taken for testing, while heavy trucks were advised to wait or delay their journeys. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands of jobs could be created in Western Australia through a new decommissioning industry for old offshore oil and gas rigs, but urgent government action is needed to establish a hub within two years. Unions and environmental groups warn that delay may push Australia to miss out on lucrative opportunities, as other countries like Brunei and Denmark advance their decommissioning efforts. Want More Context? 🔎