Authorities warn of difficult bushfire season ahead as fires continue in New South Wales; US Defence Secretary defends strikes on alleged drug cartel boats; And in sports, Australian Neil Robertson misses out on snooker finals.

Communications Minister Anika Wells defends a taxpayer-funded trip to New York, An investigation underway after 12 homes destroyed in fires on the New South Wales Central Coast, Oscar Piastri aiming to win the Formula One world championship.

Homes destroyed as fires burn across New South Wales, Mediators Qatar and Egypt call for next steps in Gaza ceasefire, Australia's bowlers dominate on day three of the Ashes.

Fears grow over future of Afghan Embassy in Australia; Police investigate death of woman found dead outside New South Wales police station; And in sport, Australia's Robertson to face UK's Judd Trump in snooker championships semi-final.

Heatwaves and extreme fire danger threaten parts of the country... Germany takes a step closer to military conscription... and Socceroos coach Tony Popovic unafraid of facing co-hosts the United States after the World Cup draw is made

Australia to face co-hosts the United States in next year's World Cup... Vladimir Putin promises the uninterrupted sale of oil to India ... and Australia build their lead in the second Ashes test against England.

In this bulletin, fires threaten homes in Tasmania, as others ignite in severe heat across New South Wales, Victoria's tough on crime laws pass both houses of parliament. And in football, fans gather ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup draw, with 48 teams in the mix for the first time.

In this bulletin, Australia is working through the details of the Pentagon's review of AUKUS, a severe heatwave warning issued for most of New South Wales. And in sport, Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris and Red Bull's Max Verstappen each vying for the F1 title.

High Court agrees to hear challenge on under-16s social media ban; Spain, the Netherlands and Ireland have announced they will boycott next year's Eurovision Song Contest; And in cricket, Zak Crawley stars in England's second-test Ashes recovery.

In this bulletin, the Victorian government plans to cut more than 1,000 public sector jobs, the UN chief calls for calm amid fears of escalation between the US and Venezuela. And in football, Arsenal beats Brentford to reclaim their English Premier League table lead.