Key Takeaways
- The federal government’s energy bill rebates will not be extended, according to Treasurer Jim Chalmers.
- Pauline Hanson has announced that Barnaby Joyce will not be the deputy leader of One Nation, but may take on a spokesperson portfolio.
- Australians have nearly $18.3 billion in outstanding personal credit card debts, a four-year high.
- A planned burn near a bushfire in Tasmania is under investigation, with firefighters looking into the cause of the fire.
- The Sydney Super Cup will be held in 2026, featuring Chelsea FC and Tottenham Hotspur.
- A parliamentary inquiry will be held into credit card companies and digital wallet providers, led by Labor MP Ed Husic.
Introduction to Energy Rebates
The federal government has announced that it will not extend its energy bill rebates, a decision that is expected to impact many Australian households. Treasurer Jim Chalmers made the announcement ahead of the release of the mid-year budget update, stating that the rebates were not a permanent feature of the budget. Chalmers emphasized that the government’s focus would be on finding more permanent solutions to help with the cost of living, such as changes to federal tax rates.
One Nation’s New Recruit
Pauline Hanson has welcomed Barnaby Joyce to One Nation, but has downplayed his role in the party’s growing political base. Hanson stated that Joyce would not be the deputy leader of the party, but may take on a spokesperson portfolio. She also announced that the party had launched around 70 branches since adopting a branch system in August, and was attracting a new breed of community-based candidates. Hanson’s comments came as polls showed that One Nation’s support had tripled in recent months, with the party gaining popularity among voters disillusioned with the major parties.
Credit Card Debt on the Rise
Australians are struggling with credit card debt, with new data showing that outstanding personal credit card debts have reached a four-year high of nearly $18.3 billion. The rise in debt has been attributed to a surge in interest-accruing balances, with consumers turning to credit cards to cover living expenses. The data has sparked concerns about the financial health of Australian households, with many struggling to make ends meet. Experts have warned that the rise in credit card debt is a worrying sign, and that households need to be careful not to overextend themselves financially.
Tasmanian Bushfire Investigation
A planned burn near a bushfire in Tasmania is under investigation, with firefighters looking into the cause of the fire. The fire, which destroyed 19 homes near Dolphin Sands, was contained after overnight rain, allowing investigators to begin their work. The Tasmania Fire Service has confirmed that a registered burn had been planned in the area, but it is unclear whether this was the cause of the fire. The investigation is ongoing, with the TFS urging community members to take responsibility for fire prevention and to report any suspicious activity.
Sydney Super Cup
The Sydney Super Cup will be held in 2026, featuring Chelsea FC and Tottenham Hotspur. The tournament, which will be staged in Sydney, will also feature Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers. The NSW government has announced that the event will be a major boost for tourism in the state, with thousands of fans expected to attend the matches. The Sydney Super Cup is expected to be a major sporting event, with some of the world’s best football teams competing in the city.
Parliamentary Inquiry into Credit Card Companies
A parliamentary inquiry will be held into credit card companies and digital wallet providers, led by Labor MP Ed Husic. The inquiry will examine the fairness, competitiveness, and affordability of credit card products, as well as the impact of technology on the payments industry. The inquiry will also consider digital currencies and blockchain technology, and will provide an opportunity for consumers to give their views on the industry. The closing date for submissions is 30 January 2026, with a final report expected by April. The inquiry is expected to shed light on the credit card industry and provide recommendations for reform.
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