Welcome back to Newslist for Week 4!
Here, we cover and note some major events that have taken place both nationally and internationally over the past week.
Australia’s involvement in the Middle East has escalated over the past week after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) called on Australia for assistance following a series of Iranian drone attacks. In response, Australia will deploy one of its most advanced aircraft to support operations in the region, alongside a crew of approximately 85 personnel who will assist in operating and maintaining the aircraft. The deployment is expected to contribute to monitoring aerial activity and strengthening coordination with allied forces operating in the Middle East.
Alongside the aircraft deployment, Australia has also committed to supplying air-to-air missiles to the United States and Israel to help intercept Iranian drones and missiles. The decision reflects Australia’s ongoing defence cooperation with Western allies but has also prompted discussion about the country’s increasing involvement in conflicts and whether our support is in the name of ‘defence.’ With many criticising Albanese’s contributions to the war, bringing up his statements and speeches he gave in government 20 years ago, calling out his contradictory nature and his pivot from his original values.
The escalation has also had economic consequences that are already being felt globally. The oil trade has been significantly disrupted following attacks on oil containers and supplies across Iran and parts of the Middle East. As a result, several countries, including Australia, have begun releasing portions of their emergency oil stockpiles to stabilise supply. Despite these efforts, petrol prices have surged both in Australia and around the world. Rising fuel costs are expected to place additional financial pressure on households, with many Australians already looking for alternative modes of transport or cutting back on travel altogether.
In another major development, members of the Iranian women’s football team have been granted asylum in Australia after concerns emerged about their safety if they returned home. The situation arose after the team refused to sing their national anthem before their game in the Women’s Asian Cup, an act widely interpreted as a political protest against the Iranian government. Their decision quickly gained international attention and sparked fears about potential consequences awaiting the players upon their return to Iran.
Australia granted asylum not only to members of the team but also to several of their family members back in Iran. The asylum decision allows them to access many of the same benefits available to Australian citizens, including Medicare, the right to work, and support through Centrelink. Ultimately, five of the players decided to remain in Australia, while the others returned to Iran.
Back in Australian politics, Queensland senator Matt Canavan has stepped into the role of leader of the National Party following the unexpected resignation of David Littleproud. Littleproud announced his departure in candid terms, telling reporters that he was “buggered” and had “had enough.” His resignation marks a significant moment for the Nationals, who have been navigating internal tensions and political uncertainty in recent months.
In his first press conference as leader, Senator Canavan vowed to “fight back” for Australians, outlining a vision focused on strengthening domestic industries and reducing reliance on overseas big names. He argued that Australia should invest more heavily in local production and supply chains to improve resilience. Canavan also attracted attention for encouraging Australians to have “more babies,” showcasing his ideal Australian society.
The leadership change comes at a particularly important time for the Nationals. Since their split from the Coalition earlier this year, the party has struggled to find its footing politically. The upcoming by-election in the federal seat of Farrer, previously held by former Liberal leader Susan Ley, is expected to provide an early test of Canavan’s leadership and the party’s ability to regain momentum.
Meanwhile, in the sporting world, the AFL season kicked off last week with the opening round delivering a strong start to the 2026 season. Fans were treated to a close match between Carlton and Richmond on Thursday night, with Carlton narrowly securing victory with a final score of 75–71. The tight contest has set the pace for what many supporters hope will be a highly competitive season as clubs continue to play matches across Australia this weekend.
The Australian Grand Prix also wrapped up after an action-packed weekend that drew global attention to Melbourne. Mercedes dominated the race, securing both first and second place finishes after strong performances throughout the weekend. Meanwhile, notorious Max Verstappen came in 6th place, building his way back from 20th.