Latest News Stories
Sorted by number of sources covering the story
Trump renames Lake Ontario as 'Lake America' amid US-Canada trade war
Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday to rename Lake Ontario as 'Lake America' in US government documents, escalating tensions with Canada amid a trade war. The move follows a similar renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the 'Gulf of America' in January 2025, part of Trump’s pattern of nationalist geographic rebranding. Trade talks collapsed last week, with the US imposing a 50% tariff on Canadian imports, prompting Canada to retaliate with tariffs on US goods. Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, rejected the name change, citing its Indigenous origins and long-standing use. The lake, shared by Canada’s Ontario province and the US state of New York, will see the name change implemented within 30 days in US systems, though Canada and New York Governor Kathy Hochul will not recognize it. Trump’s approval ratings have declined amid the trade dispute and the ongoing Iran war, which has lasted at least six months. The move is seen as a provocative distraction from broader political and economic challenges.
✓ Verified by 2+ sources
- Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday to rename Lake Ontario as 'Lake America' in US government documents and maps.
- The name change is part of escalating tensions between the US and Canada, including collapsed trade talks and tariffs imposed by both sides.
- The US imposed a 50% tariff on Canadian imports, with Canada retaliating with tariffs on US goods.
Today
Australia considers pornography strangulation ban and social media algorithm reforms amid teen death
The Australian government is considering a ban on pornography depicting strangulation or suffocation, following the death of a 16-year-old Sydney girl after a suspected sexual choking act. Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek highlighted alarming statistics, including that 60 per cent of young people report experiencing strangulation during sex, and that social media algorithms expose young boys to violent misogynistic content within 23 minutes. The UK’s 2024 ban on such pornography is being cited as a model, while advocates push for social media algorithms to be opt-in only, with 71 per cent of Australians supporting the measure. Both sources agree on the urgency of addressing online harms, though the ABC emphasizes a broader five-year plan for violence reduction, while the Guardian focuses on the government’s second action plan and recent legislative moves like a December ban on under-16s using social media.
Adam Scott and competitors vie for Tour Championship title in Atlanta
The PGA Tour Championship in Atlanta is a high-stakes event where Adam Scott, a 46-year-old golfer and 2006 champion, remains in contention for a second title. Scott, who last won in February 2020, is tied for third at 12 under after a strong third-round 65. His 2013 Masters victory and past success in the event make him a formidable competitor. Min Woo Lee, a 28-year-old debutant, is also in the mix but has struggled after a triple-bogey seven, dropping from eight under to five under. The field is tightly packed, with Viktor Hovland and Ryan Gerard leading at 15 under, while Cameron Young and Scottie Scheffler are among the top contenders. The $US10 million winner’s cheque and $US40 million total prize money add to the pressure, as players like Chris Gotterup and Collin Morikawa also vie for a share of the top spots.
2026 Sydney Marathon winners and records across categories
The 2026 Sydney Marathon saw record-breaking performances across all categories with 40,000 competitors participating. Ethiopian athlete Addisu Gobena won the men's race in 2:04:42, shaving over a minute from the 2025 winner Hailemaryam Kiros's time of 2:06:06. Kenyan runner Peres Jepchirchir claimed the women's title in 2:18:31, just nine seconds behind the 2025 record set by Sifan Hassan at 02:18:22. Wheelchair athletes also set new records, with Daniel Romanchuk winning the men's event in 1:26:50 and Manuela Schär winning the women's event in 1:42:04. The marathon started at 6:15am with road closures affecting major Sydney routes, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which remained closed until 11am. The event was notable for its elite competition, with the top seven men finishing under Kiros's 2025 record time, and Jepchirchir adding Sydney to her collection of four marathon majors. The Guardian also reported a medal mix-up involving incorrect landmarks on the medals.
Violent clashes among Collingwood fans at MCG during wildcard AFL game
Violent clashes erupted among Collingwood fans at the MCG during the tense wildcard AFL game against the Western Bulldogs on Friday night. Four men, aged 21, 22, 24, and 39, were ejected and fined for riotous behavior after fights broke out near the fence on level 1, with footage showing punches and shoving. The Bulldogs won by three points, 96 to 93, after Collingwood’s Tim Membrey’s final shot missed. The incident occurred in front of 81,036 fans, marking the end of Collingwood’s finals season. While both sources agree on the core facts, 7NEWS includes additional commentary from fans and players, such as Steele Sidebottom’s farewell and Scott Pendlebury’s departure, while THEAGE provides more detail on the physical nature of the altercation, including the use of clothing as a weapon.
Missing pilot Bob Bramley's plane crash in Northern Territory's Gulf of Carpentaria
The articles cover the disappearance and presumed death of 23-year-old Tasmanian pilot Bob Bramley after his small charter plane crashed on Tuesday morning in Angurugu waters, off the coast of Groote Eylandt in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Bramley was flying a non-commercial repositioning flight from Gove to Numbulwar when the aircraft went down, with a witness reporting the crash near Isle Woodah around 11:40am. Police and search and rescue crews located aircraft debris on Wednesday, refining the search area, and divers found components of the aircraft airframe on the sea floor on Thursday. Bramley, known for his passion for aviation and advocacy for youth suicide prevention, had previously circumnavigated Australia solo in 2019 as a 16-year-old, raising awareness and funds for mental health initiatives. He was also nominated for Young Australian of the Year in 2021. The search was suspended after a multi-day effort involving air, marine, and dive resources, with authorities concluding that Bramley likely died in the crash. His family described him as courageous and inspirational, expressing shock and heartbreak over the loss. Air Frontier, the charter company operating the plane, grounded all its Beechcraft Baron aircraft as a precautionary measure, and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the crash.
Former White House teleprompter operator fined for insider trading on Trump speech bets
A former White House teleprompter operator, Gabriel Perez, was fined $US172,000 and ordered to repay profits of around $US107,500 after using advance access to Donald Trump’s speeches to place illegal bets on the Kalshi prediction-market platform between December 2025 and February 2026. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) also imposed a three-year trading ban on Perez, citing his breach of trust by misappropriating nonpublic information. Both ABC and the Guardian report that Perez was placed on unpaid leave and later left his position, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt calling the incident a 'disgrace' in July 2026. While both sources agree on the core facts, discrepancies exist in the exact profit amounts repaid and Perez’s salary, with ABC detailing $US100,000 in profits and a $US175,000 salary, while the Guardian specifies $107,539.02 and omits the salary. The Guardian also highlights additional cases of insider trading on prediction markets, including a $400,000 bet by a US soldier and fines against political candidates in April 2026.
Sarah Ferguson returns to UK amid Epstein scandal fallout
Sarah Ferguson, 66, is reportedly returning to the UK after living in a Swiss chalet amid the fallout from her and her ex-husband Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Both lost their royal titles in October, and Ferguson was stripped of the freedom of York due to Epstein links. She is renting a six-bedroom property with three bathrooms in the Home Counties, while Andrew moved to Marsh Farm on King Charles’s Sandringham estate. Ferguson’s belongings were collected from Andrew’s home in Sandringham this week, and her return coincides with Prince Harry and Meghan’s arrival back in the UK with their children. The scandal resurfaced after last year’s release of millions of Epstein-related documents, revealing Ferguson took her daughters to see him days after his prison release. Ferguson’s charity, Sarah’s Trust, closed earlier this year, and six of her companies were wound down in February, while seven charities revoked her patronage. The Guardian adds that Ferguson privately called Epstein her 'supreme friend' in 2011 emails, sent less than two months after she publicly claimed she would never see him again.
Yesterday
Landmark statin trial shows 30% reduced heart attack/stroke risk for Australians over 70
A landmark clinical trial led by Monash University has shown that statins can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by 30% in healthy people over 70, with no increased risk of dementia. The decade-long study, involving nearly 10,000 participants and over 3,400 Australian GPs, found that statins are as effective in older adults as in younger populations. The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, are expected to lead to updated clinical guidelines within six months, encouraging broader use of statins for preventive care in older Australians. The trial also addressed long-standing concerns about statins causing dementia, with researchers confirming no significant difference in dementia rates between statin and placebo groups. However, the Guardian notes that while major heart events were reduced, statins did not improve disability-free survival, and adherence to the medication was an issue, with over 15% of participants discontinuing treatment. The study’s results are likely to shift medical practice, as current guidelines have historically excluded people over 75 from preventive statin use due to lack of evidence.
US-Venezuela oil deal and its global impact announced in August 2026
The three articles report that US President Donald Trump announced a historic oil deal with Venezuela on Friday local time, securing majority control of more than 65 billion barrels of proven oil reserves through a partnership with private business and Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez. The agreement, negotiated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, involves 17 oil fields and aims to draw $100 billion in private investment while granting the US 55 per cent effective output of the new company’s production. Venezuela’s total proven reserves are estimated at 303 billion barrels, about 17 per cent of the world’s supply, though current production remains at only about 1 per cent of global output due to decades of infrastructure decline. The deal follows the US military operation nearly nine months prior to capture Venezuela’s former President Nicolas Maduro, and comes amid rising US gas prices, with the average price at $4.09 a gallon on Friday. The US strategic petroleum reserves have also fallen below 300 million barrels since early August, down by more than 100 million barrels since the start of 2026. While the Guardian notes Venezuela produces 1.25 million barrels per day and mentions potential opposition backlash, 7NEWS and ABC focus on the deal’s economic and strategic implications, including tax revenue for Caracas and the use of oil for US military and reserve purposes.
Victoria scraps $134,000 Daniel Andrews statue amid policy review
Victoria’s new premier Ben Carroll scrapped plans for a $134,000 taxpayer-funded statue of former premier Daniel Andrews, citing community opposition and a review of how the state honors leaders. The statue was part of a 1999 policy introduced by Jeff Kennett, which automatically commissioned monuments for premiers serving over 3,000 days. Carroll announced an independent panel to reassess state commemorations, including statues and funerals, while the existing contract for Andrews’ statue will be repurposed for another subject. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson had previously pledged to block the statue if her party won the November state election. Polling showed strong public disapproval, with 68% opposing the monument. The Kennett-era policy already recognized four former premiers with statues in Melbourne’s Treasury Place, but Andrews’ case sparked debate over taxpayer spending and historical recognition.
Proposed changes to private health rebates for Australians aged 65+
The Australian government is proposing to remove the higher private health insurance rebate for Australians aged 65 and over, making rebates age-neutral and based solely on income. This change, expected to take effect in April, aims to save the government $730m to $940m annually by 2028-29 and $3 billion over four years. Both the Guardian and ABC report that the policy is expected to lead to a reduction in private health insurance coverage, with estimates ranging from 14,821 to 62,000 older Australians potentially dropping their cover. The government claims the impact on public hospitals will be minimal, while critics, including the AMA and shadow ministers, argue the changes will disproportionately affect older Australians on low incomes and could strain public health systems. The Senate inquiry into the bill is due to report in October, with the government needing crossbench support to pass the legislation.
Unsafe online electrical products fail Australian safety standards
Two news sources report that testing by the Lighting Council Australia found almost three in four online lighting products fail Australian safety standards. A total of 131 products were tested, with 73 per cent non-compliant, including none from Temu and AliExpress, 8 per cent from Amazon, and 12 per cent from eBay. The council wrote to marketplaces two months ago, but only Temu removed its 240V products, doing so within a week after being contacted in June. Three downlights failed fire safety tests, and two products lacked model numbers, making recalls impossible. Experts warn of fire and electrocution risks, calling for stricter regulations to hold online platforms accountable. Both sources agree that voluntary action is insufficient, but ABC highlights additional challenges like untraceable products and consumer harm statistics, while 7NEWS emphasizes the contrast between compliant Australian retailers and unsafe online platforms.
Carlton defeats Melbourne in AFL wildcard round, advances to elimination final
Carlton secured a dramatic 19-point victory over Melbourne in the AFL wildcard round, overcoming a 21-point deficit to advance to the elimination final against the sixth-placed Cats on Friday night. The match, played at the MCG, saw Carlton’s Sam Walsh deliver a standout 39-disposal performance, while rising star Jagga Smith sealed the win with two last-quarter goals. Melbourne, who finished seventh in the regular season, struggled with missed opportunities and poor kicking, failing to win a final since their 2021 premiership. The other elimination final will feature Adelaide hosting the Western Bulldogs on Saturday. Both sources agree on key details, including Carlton’s 10th-place finish, Melbourne’s early 21-point lead, and the absence of key Melbourne players due to injuries or suspensions. Carlton’s resurgence under Josh Fraser, who took over after a 1-8 start, has been pivotal, with the team making the most of their wildcard opportunity.
Tadej Pogačar crashes and withdraws from La Vuelta a España stage eight
Tadej Pogačar crashed and withdrew from La Vuelta a España during stage eight, a 171-kilometre flat route from Puçol to Xeraco, approximately 33 kilometres from the finish. The incident occurred on Saturday, with Pogačar leading by 3 minutes, 50 seconds over Enric Mas before the crash. After the withdrawal, Mas took the race leader's red jersey, becoming the first Spanish rider to lead the race since Jesus Herrada in 2018. Pogačar, a five-time Tour de France champion and Giro d'Italia winner in 2024, was targeting his first overall victory in the three-week race. The crash marked the first time Pogačar failed to finish a Grand Tour, with Felix Gall standing second overall, 1:11 behind Mas. Bryan Coquard won stage eight, while Pogačar's teammates confirmed he suffered shoulder and head injuries requiring medical attention.
Deportation of far-right influencer Milo Yiannopoulos from the US in 2026
Milo Yiannopoulos, a 41-year-old far-right influencer, was deported from the US to the UK in August 2026 after being detained by ICE in New Orleans for overstaying his visa, which he entered legally in May 2019. His final removal order was issued on July 22 following his failure to attend an immigration hearing. Both sources confirm his detention at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and his deportation on Friday, with ICE citing violations of US immigration laws. Yiannopoulos had previously supported Donald Trump’s campaigns, including in 2016, and worked with Ye (Kanye West) on a 2024 White House campaign in 2022. His social media posts, including one from June 2025, called for mass deportations, aligning with his far-right rhetoric. The Guardian adds details about his past roles, including internships and social media bans, while ABC highlights his presence in New Orleans ahead of Ye’s concert.
Wallabies vs Argentina Test match squad changes and preparations for 2025 World Cup
The Wallabies are preparing for a Test match against Argentina in Jujuy on Sunday, August 30, starting at 4am AEST, with a focus on squad rotation ahead of next year’s World Cup. Coach Les Kiss has made significant changes to the forward pack, including Allan Alaalatoa captaining the team for the sixth time, Isaac Kailea making his first Test start since 2024, and Rob Valetini replacing Harry Wilson at No 8. The backline remains unchanged from the recent 56-17 victory over Japan, with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii returning from injury to come off the bench. Argentina’s starting side is unchanged from their loss to South Africa earlier this month, and they face the Wallabies with several key players unavailable due to injuries or prior commitments. The Wallabies are on a three-Test winning streak, while Argentina has struggled in recent matches, including losses to Scotland, England, and South Africa in 2026.
One Nation's bid to win Secret Harbour state by-election in WA
The Secret Harbour state by-election in Western Australia is a pivotal moment for One Nation, as the party seeks to win its first seat in the Legislative Assembly. Luke Herdegen, the 39-year-old One Nation candidate, is leading a campaign focused on cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability, and immigration concerns, with strong support from Pauline Hanson. Both ABC and THEWEST report that Labor’s candidate, Georgia Tree, faces challenges due to her residence in Perth and past campaign missteps, while the Liberals have chosen to preference One Nation third on the ballot. The by-election follows the March 2025 state and federal elections, where One Nation won four lower house seats in South Australia and gained just under 30 per cent of the federal primary vote. With 45 per cent of votes already cast and a final result not expected until after September 3, the outcome will determine whether One Nation can break into the WA Parliament. Labor has spent $400,000 defending the seat, but voter dissatisfaction with major parties and unpopular federal Labor policies have fueled One Nation’s surge.
Powerhouse Parramatta CEO Lisa Havilah steps aside amid governance investigations weeks before opening
Lisa Havilah, CEO of Powerhouse Parramatta, stepped aside amid investigations into governance and procurement practices just weeks before the museum’s highly anticipated November 7 opening. Havilah, who has led the project for more than seven years according to ABC or since 2019 according to SMH, was replaced by Abbie Galvin as interim CEO starting September 1 or Tuesday, with Louise Herron serving as strategic advisor. The Powerhouse, a $915 million project and the city’s most significant cultural infrastructure since the Sydney Opera House, faces scrutiny over budget overspending, with SMH reporting more than $70 million in recent expenditures and ABC denying budget blowouts. The announcement came on Thursday, with Havilah’s departure announced to staff at 2.30pm, and the Powerhouse board meeting two weeks prior to address procurement concerns. The project has been marred by controversy for more than a decade, with allegations of cronyism and unethical practices triggering the investigation. Despite the leadership change, the opening remains on track for November 7, with an interim team overseeing operations.
Smash-and-grab theft of Egyptian queen’s diamond necklace from Vienna museum
Two unmasked thieves stole a 673-diamond, 200-carat platinum necklace from Vienna’s Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) on Thursday afternoon, smashing a display case with a hammer after buying tickets. The necklace, once owned by Egyptian Queen Nazli and worn at her daughter’s 1939 wedding, was part of a Van Cleef & Arpels exhibition running since June and ending on 27 September. It had been sold at Sotheby’s in 2015 for $4.3m. The heist follows a wave of high-profile European museum robberies, including a €88m/$US102 million Louvre theft in October and a 50-plus artefact raid at Spain’s Treasure of Villena. Two days earlier, Italian police recovered stolen Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse paintings worth over $US10.4 million. Both sources agree the theft was part of a broader trend of violent museum robberies, though details like exhibition size and the Louvre’s stolen jewellery value differ.