Hundreds of community heroes celebrated in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours

Hundreds of community heroes celebrated in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours

More than 900 Australians have been recognised for their exceptional contribution to the country in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours List. Here, SBS spotlights some of the many community heroes celebrated with a Medal of the Order of Australia. Among them are a self-defence teacher, a powerful advocate for victims of crime, and an author celebrating historic achievements of Greek women.

'You can change history': Pope Leo appeals to youth in first papal visit to Spain in 15 years

Pope Leo has kicked off a six-day tour of Spain, where he has met with high-level officials ahead of an expected address to parliament. The pontiff has addressed the rise of artificial intelligence, political populism, and global conflict during his visit. It's the first time a pope has visited Spain in 15 years.

Players sent off, matches abandoned: FIFA to crack down on discrimination at the World Cup

The FIFA World Cup 2026 could be a test for the organisation and its commitment to rid football of racism. In 2024, FIFA launched its 'Global Stand Against Racism' with a series of initiatives, including an anti-racism panel, education campaigns, and introducing tougher rules to combat discrimination. With incidents of racism continuing to blight professional football while FIFA prepares for its biggest tournament ever in Mexico, Canada and the US, here's how the footballing organisation's policies may play out.

Using his culture to 'heal him' - how Samuel Nai is recovering after a near-fatal shark attack

A teenager, who was attacked by a shark in Far North Queensland last year, has made a stunning recovery after months in hospital and multiple surgeries. SBS travelled to Thursday Island in the Torres Strait, where Samuel Nai is back on country, practising his culture to help him heal.

Interview: Dr Sam Bennett from Grattan Institute on future of the NDIS

Australians who use the National Disability Insurance Scheme are facing an anxious wait with political gridlock in Canberra. The Federal Government, Greens and Coalition have been considering post-budget measures on tax and the NDIS and there's just one sitting fortnight remaining before Parliament rises for a five-week Winter break. As negotiations continue, Tee Mitchell spoke with Dr Sam Bennett, the Disability Program Director at the Grattan Institute. Dr Bennett starts by addressing the elephant in the room which is what might happen if the proposed changes don't make it through the parliament.