Escalating tensions in the Middle East are disrupting critical shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, forcing vessels to divert around Africa's Cape of Good Hope and adding over 14 days to transit times. Freight costs and surcharges are already rising across the supply chain, with fuel supplies facing particular risk as the Strait of Hormuz handles approximately 20% of fuel transit. The disruptions are expected to impact everyday costs including groceries, mining, fishing and transport, with Australia's fuel security stockpile running below international recommended levels.

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Collingwood Football Club has released a three-part documentary series providing unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the iconic AFL club. The series captures raw and honest moments from the players' personal and professional lives during the previous season, showcasing the highs and lows of elite sport. The Pies are preparing for their 2025 season opener against St Kilda at the MCG, expecting a crowd of 85,000 fans.

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Australian unions are launching a campaign to increase the minimum annual leave entitlement from four to five weeks for workers, marking the first major change to annual leave standards in 50 years. The push comes as Australian workers complete an average of 4.5 weeks of unpaid overtime annually, with unions arguing that Australia has fallen behind European countries where five weeks is standard. ACTU Secretary Sally McManus argues the change represents a 2% pay increase and would benefit both workers and businesses dependent on holiday spending.

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Australian radio hosts Kyle and Jackie O have ended their breakfast radio partnership after more than 20 years following an on-air argument. Kyle has been suspended by Kiss FM and given 14 days to address workplace behaviour issues or face contract termination, while Jackie O has been offered her own show in a different time slot. The split raises potential legal implications for both the radio network and the hosts regarding workplace bullying claims.

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The Reserve Bank of Australia warns that the Middle East conflict could trigger higher interest rates and oil price spikes in Australia. Petrol prices are expected to rise, with each $1 increase in world oil prices adding about one cent per litre at the bowser, while airfares and transport costs may also increase due to higher fuel costs. The strong Australian dollar, currently above 70 cents, may provide some buffer against these price increases, though economists warn inflation could still push above 4 per cent.

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The U.S. consulate in Dubai was struck by a drone in an incident that sparked a fire, though no casualties were reported and the fire was quickly extinguished. Most consulate staff had been working from home at the time of the attack. Intelligence analysts suggest Iran has distributed drones and assets across the region to various groups, and the incident occurs amid broader tensions involving U.S. and Israeli operations targeting Iranian infrastructure.

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Treasury warns Australians about potential economic impacts from the Middle East conflict, with inflation projected to increase by 0.15 per cent and petrol prices potentially climbing by 3.5 per cent. Housing Minister Clare O'Neill and Shadow Attorney General Michaelia Cash debate the government's handling of cost of living pressures and economic management. Both politicians address Australia's position on the Middle East conflict, ruling out direct troop deployment while supporting US and Israeli actions against Iran's regime.

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Treasury warns Australians about potential economic impacts from the Middle East conflict, with inflation projected to increase by 0.15 per cent and petrol prices potentially climbing by 3.5 per cent. Housing Minister Clare O'Neill and Shadow Attorney General Michaelia Cash debate the government's handling of cost of living pressures and economic management. Both politicians address Australia's position on the Middle East conflict, ruling out direct troop deployment while supporting US and Israeli actions against Iran's regime.

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Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Michelle Bullock has warned that inflation remains too high domestically as global oil shocks from Middle East conflict add pressure to the economy. Financial markets are now pricing in a 30% chance of an interest rate hike at the RBA's next meeting in a fortnight, up from just 5% before Bullock's comments at the AFR Business Summit. The central bank is closely monitoring how prolonged energy price disruptions could impact business expenses and household costs.

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An Australian woman trapped in a conflict zone describes deteriorating conditions as air defence systems run low on interceptor missiles. Communication with authorities has been minimal, and she remains without her luggage and medication despite contact from the embassy and Qatar Airways. Other foreign nationals are attempting to evacuate by road to Riyadh as the situation is expected to worsen.

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