Guardian AU
NDIS infiltrated by organised crime gangs using intimidation and threats of violence against Australians
Organised crime networks have embedded themselves in Australia's $50 billion National Disability Insurance Scheme, using it to launder money, generate income, and conceal assets — with law enforcement warning that intimidation and violence are being deployed against participants. The infiltration represents a serious threat to the integrity of a program designed to support some of Australia's most vulnerable people. A new review is recommending mandatory provider registration and smarter use of NDIS data to detect and pursue repeat fraudsters.
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Australia news live: ‘weeks’ to restore production at Geelong refinery after blaze, Viva says; Chalmers warns of ‘big risks’ to inflation and growth
Australia's Geelong oil refinery faces weeks-long production delays after a fire tore through the Viva Energy facility, raising supply concerns for the region. Treasurer Jim Chalmers is flagging significant headwinds for the economy, warning of mounting risks to both inflation and growth ahead of next month's federal budget. Meanwhile, ACT independent senator David Pocock is pushing for a 25% tax on gas exports to bankroll welfare and housing initiatives.
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Water NSW criticised for ‘appalling’ decision after hundreds of turtles left to die in wetlands
Water NSW halted flows to the Gwydir wetlands in March, triggering a crisis that left hundreds of turtles stranded and dying in drying mud. A river ecologist has condemned the decision as "appalling," describing the outcome as a classic bureaucratic failure with serious ecological consequences. The incident has raised urgent questions about how government agencies manage environmental water allocations in ecologically sensitive regions.
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Australia news live: Pocock buys billboards to pressure Chalmers on gas export tax; survey reveals national gloom
Senator David Pocock is escalating pressure on Treasurer Jim Chalmers by funding billboards calling for a 25% tax on gas exports, with proceeds directed toward welfare increases and housing construction. The ACT independent joins a growing coalition of charities and social service groups urging the Albanese government to target gas export profits and property tax concessions ahead of next month's federal budget. The campaign reflects broader public discontent, with a new survey pointing to widespread pessimism about Australia's economic direction.
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News live: Australia dealing with ‘the largest energy shock in our history’ as strait of Hormuz tensions continue, industry minister says
Australia's industry minister has warned the country is navigating its most severe energy shock on record, as ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to rattle global supply chains and fuel markets. The crisis has reignited domestic policy debate, with ACT independent Senator David Pocock pushing for a 25% export tax on gas to redirect revenue toward welfare and housing. Adding to the pressure, Victoria's Geelong refinery — damaged in a major fire last week — is only now resuming ASX trading after Viva Energy confirmed production will recover to roughly 90% capacity within weeks.
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