Tourism experts have revealed Australia’s top beach for 2026 following the release of a national coastal ranking that evaluated destinations based on scenic appeal, accessibility, environmental quality, and visitor experience. The announcement highlights the continued global recognition of Australia’s diverse coastline and its role in supporting domestic and international tourism.

Australian authorities are progressing plans for a nationwide mobile emergency alert system, with a future test expected to deliver warning notifications directly to mobile phones across the country. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and enhance public safety communication during critical incidents.

The Australian Government has confirmed the evacuation of dependents of diplomatic staff from Israel and Lebanon as regional security conditions continue to deteriorate. The precautionary measure is intended to minimise risk to personnel's families while diplomatic operations remain under heightened security monitoring.

Health authorities have confirmed that a fungal infection outbreak at a major Sydney hospital has resulted in two patient deaths and multiple additional infections, prompting the temporary closure of a specialised transplant unit. The incident has triggered an immediate clinical response and precautionary measures aimed at protecting vulnerable patients receiving complex medical care.

Salisbury station in Brisbane will reopen on Monday, 2 March, following a full accessibility rebuild. It is one of seven surface stations being upgraded on Brisbane's south side.

The City of Moreton Bay's all abilities playground at Leslie Patrick Park in Arana Hills is scheduled for a major upgrade aimed at increasing accessibility for children of all abilities.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), the nation’s peak body for pharmacists, has issued an urgent call to the Federal Government to support the delivery of essential medicine safety programs. The PSA warns that the current lack of support is placing the health of many Australians at increasing risk.

The Queensland Government has announced the launch of the Age-friendly Seniors Month Grant Program, aimed at supporting local initiatives that enhance the well-being and social inclusion of older Queenslanders. In partnership with Council on the Ageing Queensland, the program will provide grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to local governments, community organizations, and not-for-profit groups.

New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that the total value of wages and salaries paid to workers across Australia has continued to grow steadily over the past two years, pointing to ongoing resilience in the labour market.

Australia’s annual inflation rate remained steady at 3.8 per cent in the year to January 2026, according to new data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).