Telstra Outage: A nationwide Telstra crash hit phones, EFTPOS and trains, with the telco saying there’s no sign of malicious activity as about 90% of services were restored and the ombudsman investigates. RBA Rate Trade-offs: RBA chief economist Sarah Hunter warned bringing inflation down may require a period of low inflation and higher unemployment, as cost-of-living pressure keeps squeezing households. Mining & Jobs: BHP Port Hedland workers plan an eight-hour strike on July 16, while unions push for fair deals across the iron ore supply chain. Energy on First Nations Country: The Capacity Investment Scheme tenders include a First Nations set-aside, requiring at least 5% equity or revenue sharing for projects. Health & Care Gaps: A Northern Territory digital health partnership will expand integrated care for complex conditions, and a Sunshine Coast mum is calling for bridging support while families wait for NDIS help. Local Business & Property: Redcape Hotel Group has bought Iris Capital’s Hunter hospitality portfolio in a deal worth about $500m, and Belmo Group snapped up Townsville’s Aquarius on the Beach. Biosecurity: SA is investigating suspected H5 bird flu cases in giant petrels, with Kangaroo Island’s endangered sea lions a key concern. Tech & Transport: Queensland’s Moreton Bay will trial AI-powered traffic lights to improve flow and pedestrian wait times. Sports: Cricket Australia released the 2026-27 Sheffield Shield schedule, including a pink-ball match at the MCG ahead of the 150th anniversary Test.