AUKUS & Defence Industry: Australia says it will buy three second-hand US Virginia-class submarines under AUKUS, while also backing a new underwater drone payload project announced at the Shangri-La Dialogue, as Canberra pushes for better undersea protection and faster capability delivery. Maritime Security: The Royal Australian Navy has commissioned HMAS Eyre, the second Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel, boosting patrol and regional stability roles as the rest of the fleet continues through 2029. Cost of Living & Wages: Australia’s Fair Work Commission has lifted the minimum wage by 4.75% from July 1 for about 2.8 million low-paid workers, setting it at $1,004.90 a week, with economists warning it could add inflation pressure. Food & Farming: Middle East conflict is driving up fertilizer and energy costs, and ABARES forecasts Australia’s 2026-27 winter crop area and output will fall sharply, with wheat and other key crops hit by dry conditions and uncertainty over fertilizer supply. Energy & Gas: Santos has approval to drill up to 12 wells in the Beetaloo basin within weeks, drawing fresh calls for federal review over water and threatened species impacts. Cyber & Security: Hong Kong’s regulator warns licensed firms to strengthen defences against AI-driven cyber threats, while Australia’s own watchdog actions also target unsafe products sold online. Community Safety: Police investigated a reported threat at Lethbridge Collegiate Institute, triggering lockdowns that were later lifted with no ongoing risk found.