Winter Crops: ABARES forecasts Australia’s 2026-27 winter crop area at 23.6m hectares (down 7%), with production projected to fall 21% to 54.5m tonnes as dry conditions and higher input costs bite. Minimum Wage: The Fair Work Commission has set a 4.75% minimum wage rise from July for about 2.8m low-paid workers, lifting the weekly floor to $1,409.90, while economists warn it could add inflation pressure. NDIS Overhaul: A government advisory committee says the proposed NDIS changes will cause “material harm” and could hand the health minister unprecedented power, urging more consultation and fewer cuts to supports. Maritime Security & Defence: The RAN commissioned HMAS Eyre, the second Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel, and Australia’s defence ties with India deepen via a new dialogue focused on maritime security and interoperability. AUKUS Update: New Aukus announcements include payload work for underwater drones and Australia’s plan to buy three second-hand Virginia-class submarines. Consumer Safety: The ACCC has ordered Amazon, eBay, Kogan and Fruugo to delist potentially deadly magnetic toys. Business & Markets: Activist investor Elliott disclosed a $1bn+ stake in Northern Star and is pushing for a strategic review that could include a sale. Population: Australia hit 28m people, driven mainly by migration rather than births. Sport (ODI): Pakistan restricted Australia to 231/9 in the second ODI at Lahore, with Shaheen Afridi leading the attack.