Paraquat weed killer remains legal despite health concerns

NSW shark attacks prompt calls for emergency summit

New South Wales is experiencing a significant increase in shark attacks, with five incidents already recorded in 2025 including four within 48 hours and one fatality. Following Sydney's first fatal attack in 60 years at Little Bay in February 2022, the state has seen a concerning pattern with multiple attacks annually, prompting calls for an emergency shark summit. Premier Chris Minns announces plans for enhanced drone surveillance using artificial intelligence technology and additional funding for shark mitigation measures across major Sydney and coastal beaches, though he acknowledges no solution can make waters completely shark-proof. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Daryl Braithwaite retires from live performances

Daryl Braithwaite has announced his retirement from live performances after a long career in music. The Australian singer, known for his distinctive voice and the challenging vocal range required for his hit song 'Horses', has cited health issues and a loss of joy in performing as reasons for stepping away. His twin brother Glenn, who performs in Geelong clubs, may continue the family's musical legacy. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Jackie O expands legal battle against ARN

Radio host Jackie O Henderson is expanding her legal case against former employer ARN, adding allegations of a breached $3 million loan agreement related to share purchases to her existing $85 million unfair dismissal claim. The share value has declined significantly, contributing to the dispute. This development follows her former co-host Kyle Sandilands' $12 million settlement with the network, with industry observers noting Henderson shows no signs of seeking a settlement agreement. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Paraquat weed killer remains legal despite health concerns

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority has declined to ban paraquat, a toxic weed killer chemical linked to Parkinson's disease, despite it being prohibited in more than 70 countries. The authority's final review introduced restrictions and reduced maximum usage amounts, but rejected calls from scientists and advocacy groups for a complete ban. Parkinson's Australia disputes the finding that paraquat does not increase Parkinson's disease risk, citing concerns about accidental ingestion risks and questioning enforcement of protective equipment requirements. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Labor bans property borrowing in super funds

The Australian government, with Greens support, will ban self-managed superannuation funds from borrowing to purchase residential property in new arrangements 45 days after the budget bill passes. The ban will not affect existing borrowing arrangements, which will be grandfathered, but applies only to future investments. Approximately 50,000 self-managed super funds currently have these borrowing arrangements in place. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.