Immigration & Cost-of-Living: Historian George Megalogenis warns One Nation’s plan to cut migration by 766,000 over three years could “tank” the economy on a scale likened to the 1890s depression, as debate continues over net overseas migration and business impacts. Small Business Pressure: Naomi Simson says it’s “never been tougher” to run a business in Australia, pointing to higher interest rates, tighter financing and rising compliance burdens. Local Disruption From Infrastructure: Melbourne’s Suburban Rail Loop Authority is revising Box Hill works to protect Box Hill Gardens, but councillors say it will still trigger more compulsory acquisitions—hitting about 10 more businesses with little warning. Regional Jobs Shock: Whyalla’s blast furnace closure is set to cost hundreds of jobs, with unions and industry groups warning of knock-on damage to Australia’s industrial capability. Cyber Insurance & Protections: AFCA flags “significant gaps” in broker and insurer code redrafts for small business cover, while the Insurance Council argues cyber insurance value is rising as threats grow. Consumer Energy Rules: Australia backs a national technical framework for household and small-business energy devices (2026–2029), including mandatory certification and a new regulator. Remote Housing Boost: NT governments deliver six new homes for Angurugu on Groote Eylandt, built with local First Nations not-for-profits to cut overcrowding. Payments & Trade Tech: Zoth expands zPayments onto Base for cross-border payouts across 171 countries, targeting faster settlements and lower costs for businesses. AI Governance: OneTrust reports many organisations in Australia are using AI agents faster than they can govern them, with most reporting AI-related incidents. Business Closures: Disability-focused fashion label JAM The Label will close after eight years, citing financial viability pressures.