Radio National Breakfast

A warning that the following story mentions allegations of sexual offences against children.

Parents have been shaken by more shocking evidence of abuse in childcare facilities this week, with the ABC's Four Corners revealing almost 150 workers have been convicted, charged or accused of sexual abuse or misconduct.

In New South Wales, childcare regulators have fronted the state's parliamentary inquiry into the sector to answer why they failed to respond to a trove of abuse allegations.

• GUEST: Abigail Boyd, Greens MP and Chair of NSW Childcare Parliamentary Inquiry
• PRODUCER(S): Brooke Young and Eddy Diamond

A delegation from the European Parliament is visiting Canberra as the European Union and Australia continue to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement.

Earlier this year, Australia and the bloc revived talks over the trade deal — talks which first started in 2018.

• Guest: Sean Kelly, Member of the European Parliament
• Producer: Isadora Bogle 

Australia's largest aluminium smelter says it could shut down by the end of 2028, blaming increasing energy costs.

The federal government says it is working with the New South Wales governmentto try and secure a future for the Hunter Valley facility. 

• Guest: Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy
• Producer: Isadora Bogle

In 2023, the federal government announced an independent inquiry into the transparency of government boards and so-called 'jobs for mates' appointments.

The Commonwealth and New South Wales governments are continuing negotiations with Tomago Aluminium owner Rio Tinto after the country's largest aluminium smelter announced it would not operate beyond 2028 due to rising energy costs.

A New South Wales shearer, registered nurse and mental health advocate has been celebrated by rural Australia.

Israel has launched strikes on Gaza City overnight, killing at least two people according to Gaza's civil defence.

Ahead of COP30 to be held in Brazil next month, the UN Secretary General António Guterres says humanity has failed to limit global heating to 1.5C and that means "devastating consequences" for the world.

Coverage and analysis of national and international events.

The Swan Reach Conservation Park features within Australia's only dark sky reserve, which sees thousands of tourists each year visits for stargazing.