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Experts warn of a fierce bushfire season ahead as dozens of homes destroyed in New South Wales and Tasmania.

Lucy Cooper, an ABC reporter, highlights the alarming plight of PALM Scheme workers in Australia. Susan Pino and Wayne Levy share their heart-wrenching experiences of low pay and exploitation, with Levy lamenting the struggle to support his family. Dr. Kaya Barry reveals visa cancellations leading to legal limbo for many workers. Paul Matum discusses local efforts in Leighton to provide support for these disengaged workers. The conversation exposes a system in dire need of reform and more protection for vulnerable laborers.

Angela Wapier, a national technology reporter, dives into Meta's controversial decision to delete accounts for under-16s, highlighting teen reactions and the ongoing age-checking challenges. Samantha Dick discusses the Telecommunications Ombudsman's push for more power to address tech complaints, revealing frustrating cases where users were locked out of accounts. Daniel Mercer presents encouraging findings from the Australian Energy Market Commission, suggesting a potential dip in electricity prices thanks to increased reliance on renewables.

Vladimir Putin issues a blunt warning 'he doesn't want war with Europe but if it comes - Russia's ready'. 

The Federal government's releasing its blueprint for the development of the artificial intelligence industry in Australia.

Daniel Westerman, Chief Executive of the Australian Energy Market Operator, shares insights on Australia's energy future. He raises alarms about the unpreparedness of the electricity grid for the 2027 closure of the Araring coal-fired power station. Westerman highlights the importance of synchronous condensers and discusses the dual transition of retiring coal and increasing rooftop solar. He also addresses potential risks of outages while emphasizing collaborative efforts to ensure a smooth transition and the inevitable retirement of ageing coal plants.

The death toll in the apartment complex fire in Hong Kong has now passed 80 with hundreds still missing - many of whom are feared dead. 

Alison Horn, the ABC's China correspondent, shares gripping details about the devastating Hong Kong residential fire and ongoing rescue efforts. Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP, sheds light on unexpected inflation spikes and their impact on interest rate forecasts. Shadow Treasurer Ted O'Brien advocates for fiscal reforms to combat inflation and discusses his plans for cost-of-living pressures. Political reporter Laura Lavelle dives into the controversial social media ban for under-16s and its legal challenges, highlighting the current debates surrounding youth safety online.

Tim Ayres, Australia’s Federal Minister for Industry, discusses the upcoming Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute and the importance of international AI risk assessment. Sian Valance, an ABC reporter in London, shares insights on Ukraine's negotiations for peace with Russia and the involvement of the UK, France, and Turkey in monitoring ceasefires. Matthew Doran reports on the devastating flooding in Gaza and its humanitarian impact, highlighting the urgent need for aid as conditions worsen. Together, they tackle pressing global issues with fresh perspectives.

Better pay and protections for delivery drivers in a world-first deal.