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New Zealand Economic Recovery Stays Slow as Retail, Jobs Contract

19 October 2026 at 10:28
New Zealand's economic recovery is progressing slowly, with employment and retail spending both still contracting, according to Bank of New Zealand senior economist commentary. The bank linked the weak results to ongoing pressure on household incomes across the country.

Independent MP Helen Haines Critically Injured in Victoria Attack

19 October 2026 at 10:28
Independent Australian MP Helen Haines was critically injured in a violent attack near her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Police took a man into custody, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said counter-terrorism officers are assisting with the investigation.

NZIER warns higher KiwiSaver contributions could hurt short-term finances

19 October 2026 at 02:24
New Zealand's economic research institute NZIER has warned that raising KiwiSaver contribution rates could leave some savers financially worse off in the near term. The institute's paper points to a trade-off between improving long-term retirement preparedness and preserving people's financial resilience today.

South Australian oyster farms show uneven recovery from algal bloom

19 October 2026 at 02:24
Oyster growers along South Australia's coast report recovery from last year's harmful algal bloom, though the pace varies widely between regions. Farmers describe reduced stock levels and a rise in barnacle growth as lingering challenges heading into the busy summer season.

Victoria's Labor pledges toll cap as Coalition sets gas policy

18 October 2026 at 10:40
Victoria's premier and opposition leader have unveiled competing pledges ahead of next month's state election. The premier proposed a $30 cap on toll road charges, while the opposition set out its own policy on household gas installation rules. The campaign is increasingly centred on transport and energy costs.

Woodside offshore gas platform occupation ends in two arrests

18 October 2026 at 10:40
Two people have been taken into custody after occupying an offshore gas platform operated by Woodside Energy roughly 200 kilometres off Western Australia's coast. The demonstrators were protesting the company's gas operations. Australian Border Force personnel took part in removing them from the facility.

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