Here is a look at what is making news around the country today.
Today’s national news includes Peter Dutton launching federal election campaign with a pledge to serve ‘everyday Australians’, Aussie dollar’s fall vis-à-vis to the US dollar to fuel inflation, the Australian Army receiving new Bushmaster-protected mobility vehicles worth more than a hundred million dollars, and Sydney couple charged for smuggling heroin valued at $5 million.
Nation
Aussie dollar’s fall vis-à-vis to the US dollar to fuel inflation
The Australian dollar is nearing its lowest levels since the pandemic, raising worries about inflation as it weakens against the US dollar, news.com.au reported. A declining currency could lead to higher import prices, consumer prices, and pressure on interest rates. Although recent drops in fuel prices have contributed to lower overall inflation, if fuel prices stabilise or rise, it may hinder the Reserve Bank of Australia’s efforts to control inflation. Conversely, a weaker dollar can have positive effects, making Australia more appealing for businesses, enhancing export opportunities, and boosting government revenues due to higher profits from commodity exports. Moreover, it could open doors for Australian remote workers with skills that are in demand globally.
Peter Dutton launches federal election campaign with a pledge to serve ‘everyday Australians’
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has kicked off his campaign for the 2025 election, pledging to embody the “views, values, and vision” of everyday Australians, SkyNews reported. During a speech in Melbourne’s Chisholm electorate, he criticised Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government, labelling it as one of the most ineffective in history and highlighting that Australians feel increasingly worse off, less secure, and more anxious. Dutton focused on key issues such as the rising cost of living, housing affordability, and national security, reaching out to “quietly patriotic” Australians. In response, Prime Minister Albanese has also started his campaign, emphasising green manufacturing and the creation of renewable energy jobs, framing the election as a battle of differing visions for the future.
Defence
40 more new Bushmasters for the Australian Army
SkyNews reported that the Albanese government has announced a contract worth over $100 million for the Australian Army to receive more than 40 additional Bushmaster-protected mobility vehicles to be produced by Thales Australia in Bendigo, Victoria. These new vehicles will be stationed at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia and will support a multi-mission phased array radar battery for critical command and control functions. The deal will preserve over 250 jobs in Bendigo and reflects the government’s commitment to regional employment and national defence.
Regions
Sydney couple charged for smuggling heroin valued at $5 million
A couple from Canley Heights, both in their early 50s, was arrested for attempting to smuggle 10 kilograms of heroin into Australia after being caught by the Australian Border Force at Sydney Airport on January 9, 2025, The Australian has reported. The heroin was concealed within their luggage. They are facing serious charges under the Criminal Code for importing a significant quantity of a border-controlled substance. They are currently held in custody, with a court date set for March 12, 2025. The street value of the heroin is estimated at $5 million.
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