Minimum Wage Rise: Australia’s Fair Work Commission has set a 4.75% pay increase from July for about 2.8 million low-paid workers, lifting the minimum weekly wage to $1,409.90 and the hourly rate to $26.44, with economists warning it could add inflation pressure. Gas vs Renewables: A Grattan Institute report argues Australia should cut gas demand first and pursue renewables “relentlessly”, while industry and states back the Albanese government’s plan to jump-start stalled renewables investment. LNG Strike: Unions have begun strike action at Inpex’s Ichthys LNG plant, raising supply concerns. Beetaloo Gas Push: Santos could start new drilling in the Northern Territory’s Beetaloo basin within weeks after state approval for up to 12 wells, with environmental groups urging federal intervention. Consumer Safety Crackdown: Choice has asked the ACCC to act over unsafe “toy-like” products sold online, including fake cigarette lighters and other potentially banned items. Packaging Warning: A “franken-can” won Australia’s worst packaging award, spotlighting gaps in national packaging rules. Business & Trade: Bunnings is set to absorb Blackwoods and Workwear Group, while Australia’s trade data shows a first deficit since 2017 amid tech and fuel imports. Maritime Defence: Bombardier will supply modified Global 6500 jets to the Australian Border Force for surveillance operations from 2028. Housing Stress: New arrears data flags rising distress in outer suburbs, with Sydney and Melbourne singled out as most exposed.