Packaging Policy: Australia won’t introduce a new Commonwealth packaging scheme this term, but the federal government is looking at how to use updated kerbside recyclability guidance to improve existing rules. Recycling Industry Shock: Recycling Plastics Australia has entered administration, raising questions about a major soft-plastics recycling project funded by the federal government. Child Safety Oversight (NSW): The NSW ombudsman says more than a third of prenatal welfare reports weren’t investigated due to caseworker shortages, with some families forced into prenatal case work. Housing & Credit Pressure: APRA data shows mortgage growth barely moved in July, as home values keep sliding and lenders brace for weaker demand. Teen Social Media Regulation (US): California lawmakers passed a bill to keep under-16s off social media features deemed addictive and harmful, with penalties for non-compliance. Pacific Drug Crackdown: Australia pledges $600m for a maritime crackdown in the Pacific to disrupt meth and cocaine trafficking. Nepal Flood Update: Four more Australians are confirmed safe after the Nepal-Tibet floods, as the death toll passes 1,000 and rescue efforts continue. Queensland Transport Law: Queensland’s tough new e-bike and e-scooter rules are now in effect, including requirements for riders and licensing. End-of-Life Law (NT): The Northern Territory’s voluntary assisted dying laws are now in place, but critics say the framework still falls short.