The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that the 2025–26 permanent Migration Program will remain at 185,000 places, the same size as 2024–25 after consultations with all states and territories.

Australia’s housing market is expected to enter 2026 on a weaker footing as fears of another interest rate hike hit buyer confidence, but a deep shortage of homes is still likely to keep prices and rents edging higher rather than falling.​

Dharug dancer and choreographer Peta Strachan is bringing a powerful new work centred on First Nations women, language and Country to the Sydney Opera House as part of Sydney Festival 2026.​

Australia has entered 2026 with a suite of significant changes to tax, Centrelink, superannuation and everyday costs that will affect almost every household’s budget.