The latest news from Australia with correspondent Amanda Copp in Canberra.

An update on the latest news from RNZ's rural team.

The latest news from RNZ's business team.

Solar panels will be rolled out for up to 500 schools, under a $30 million plan announced by the government today. Education Minister Erica Stanford spoke to Guyon Espiner.

Transparency International is calling for a big crackdown on the lobbying industry, a completely unregulated activity in New Zealand. Julie Haggie, chief executive at Transparency International New Zealand spoke to Guyon Espiner.

The top stories and other headlines at midday

Two of the biggest customer loyalty programmes are undergoing changes. Bodo Lang is a professor of Marketing Analytics at Massey University and joins Susie to discuss.

Irish-born New Zealand-based author Sharron Martin's latest novel, Cygnet River, is set amid the Troubles in Ireland and shines a light on the experiences of women during this time.

James has more on the Budget funding to secure the Waioweka Gorge and Gisborne's elderly and solo parents fear higher costs under social housing reforms.

Elizabeth Heritage reviews Te Kaikaukau: The Swimmer - I te Ao o te Reo by Witi Ihimaera Smiler published by Auckland University Press.