Housing & cost of living: Home values are expected to keep sliding, with Commonwealth Bank flagging a faster, broader downturn and the federal government insisting the market is “inherently cyclical.” Markets: ASX futures point to a sharp retreat as oil jumps on US-Iran tensions and global bond yields surge, pressuring rate-sensitive stocks. Privacy & digital ID: Australia’s privacy rules for digital identity are under renewed scrutiny, with a world-first test forcing companies to justify every data use. Packaging & recycling: The government has ruled out a new packaging scheme this term, while Recycling Plastics Australia has entered administration as reform stalls. Drugs crackdown in the Pacific: Australia pledges $600m to tackle meth and cocaine trafficking with a maritime security push. Local governance & housing supply: Housing approvals fell in July, adding fuel to the debate over whether policy settings are keeping up with demand. Northern Territory energy: Tamboran begins gas commissioning in the Beetaloo Basin, moving the project closer to first gas sales. Community & sport: AFLW Indigenous Round spans every state and territory, with a Darwin dreamtime match at TIO Stadium. Safety: Searches continue for missing hikers in SA’s Mount Remarkable and after Nepal-Tibet floods, with numbers revised and more people found safe.