2025 AFL Season Begins with Sydney Swans Hosting Hawthorn

The 2025 AFL season begins with the Sydney Swans, the reigning minor premier and grand finalist, hosting Hawthorn at the SCG. Hawthorn won six of its last seven regular-season matches last year to make it through to the second week of the finals.

Sudan Accuses United Arab Emirates of Facilitating Genocide

Sudan has accused the United Arab Emirates of facilitating genocide by arming a paramilitary force in the country’s civil war. Sudan has launched a case against the UAE in the International Court of Justice, alleging the UAE is breaching the genocide convention.

Research Suggests Removing Stamp Duty Could Free Up Housing

According to Dr. Nick Garvin from the E61 Economic Research Institute, stamp duty could be holding back around 100,000 housing moves in New South Wales. Removing stamp duty, particularly for downsizers, could free up housing supply in high-demand areas.

Uncertainty Over Future of Darwin Port Leased to Chinese Company

The future of the Darwin port, leased to Chinese company Landbridge, remains unclear despite discussions with the federal government. Federal MP Luke Gosling said there were investors willing to buy out the 1990 lease, but Landbridge denied the port was for sale.

Controversy Surrounding Northern Territory Police Commissioner

The future of the Northern Territory Police Commissioner is in question following revelations of improper conduct in hiring a close friend for a senior government position. The Independent Commissioner against Corruption has made a finding of unsatisfactory conduct against an unnamed senior executive, later identified as Mr. Murphy.