Australia’s forests are experiencing rapidly rising tree death rates at the same time as a major heatwave drives extreme fire danger across Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, raising grave concerns about ecosystem collapse, carbon emissions and community safety.

Australia’s forests are experiencing rapidly rising tree death rates at the same time as a major heatwave drives extreme fire danger across Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, raising grave concerns about ecosystem collapse, carbon emissions and community safety.

Brisbane’s median home value has surged by about $135,900 over the past year, lifting typical dwelling prices to around the $1 million mark and outpacing Sydney and Melbourne, even as borrowers brace for possible interest rate hikes in early 2026.

Australia is entering 2026 with multiculturalism reaffirmed as central to the national story, while a tightening but highly targeted migration program pushes states such as the ACT and Tasmania to use their skilled visa quotas to attract urgently needed workers in health, trades and regional roles.

Australian renters received sobering news this week as new data confirms the nation's rental affordability crisis has intensified, with rents climbing faster than household incomes and vacancy rates dropping to levels not seen in decades.