Wildlife & Public Safety: Tasmania’s “Neil the Seal” has returned to sea after weeks of chaos, but scientists are watching closely after the Freya the Walrus case ended in euthanasia—pushing for safer wildlife management. Housing & Planning: A zoning atlas says 76% of residential land within 20km of capital-city centres is restricted, with Hobart worst (97%) and Melbourne least (45%), as calls grow to loosen rules to tackle the housing crisis. Energy Bills & Grid Power: The ACCC warns home battery owners aren’t joining virtual power plants fast enough, risking higher costs as Australia shifts away from coal. Health & Inclusion: Dementia Australia and ACON launch an LGBT+ dementia hub with a helpline, online chat, resources and an affirming doctor directory. Water Security: An independent panel warns the Upper Murrumbidgee “will likely die” without major increases to Tantangara Dam releases, with downstream health and ecosystems at stake. Queensland Housing Push: The state says its Residential Activation Fund has unlocked 100,000 homes, with $146m more for Gold Coast infrastructure. International Trade: India and Canada conclude a third CEPA round in Ottawa, aiming to finish talks in 2026. Politics & Economy: Barnaby Joyce backs a Reserve Bank review idea, while consumer sentiment heads for its monthly test as petrol prices ease but pessimism lingers.