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Six Australian women and children, living in Syrian camps, returned to Australia in late September without government assistance. Their return raises questions about security, government transparency, and policies on repatriation of citizens linked to ISIS, amid ongoing security monitoring and community concerns.
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Hackers compromised a third-party vendor managing Discord's age verification data, exposing government ID photos of about 70,000 users globally. The breach includes contact details and messages, with extortion attempts reported. Discord has revoked vendor access, launched an investigation, and contacted law enforcement. The incident raises concerns over data privacy and security in age verification processes.
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Australia has introduced a new law banning social media accounts for users under 16, effective December 10. Platforms face fines up to A$50 million if they fail to comply. The law aims to protect children from online risks, amid ongoing debates about enforcement and privacy concerns.
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Australia is developing a A$1.2 billion strategic minerals reserve, focusing on rare earths, to mitigate supply disruptions amid China's export restrictions. The plan involves policy recommendations, potential stockpiling, and collaboration with allies, with the reserve expected to be operational by late 2026.
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An Italian appeals court ordered the transfer of Ukrainian suspect Serhii K. to Germany, where he faces charges related to the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage. Currently held in Italy, he is refusing food and demanding better detention conditions. The case remains pending at Italy’s Court of Cassation.
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Australia will require social media platforms to block under-16 accounts from December 10, with fines up to $33 million for non-compliance. The law targets platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, aiming to protect children from harmful content and mental health risks. Exemptions include messaging and educational platforms, with ongoing assessments of impact.
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Denmark plans to restrict social media for children under 15, with some parental exemptions from age 13. The move aims to address concerns over youth mental health and online safety, following similar measures in Australia. Legislation is expected to pass after months of debate, with enforcement relying on digital ID and age verification systems.
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British and Australian security agencies warn of persistent Chinese espionage efforts targeting critical infrastructure and economic secrets. Recent reports highlight cyber sabotage risks, including potential disruptions to water, power, banking, and telecommunications, with Chinese hacking groups Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon identified as key threats. The warnings underscore ongoing tensions over national security and economic interests.
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Meta has announced it will restrict access for Australian users aged 13-15 starting December 4, ahead of a new law requiring social media platforms to exclude under-16s. The law, effective December 10, aims to protect minors but raises concerns over privacy and effectiveness.
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On December 10, 2025, Australia enforced a pioneering law banning users under 16 from major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Platforms must block new and existing underage accounts or face fines up to A$49.5 million. The law aims to protect youth mental health amid concerns over cyberbullying and addictive design, though it faces legal challenges and practical enforcement issues.
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Sam Strable, known as Sam Jones online, was jailed in Wyoming on November 21. She faces eight misdemeanour charges for falsely claiming residency to obtain hunting licenses and for wildlife offences, including a viral incident involving a wombat in Australia that drew international condemnation.
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The US has endorsed the AUKUS security pact after a Pentagon review, confirming its long-term viability. Australia will acquire US nuclear submarines in the early 2030s, with efforts to improve supply chains and build submarine capacity. Meanwhile, Australia’s domestic violence response receives a $674 million boost.
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Australia has established a new autonomous sanctions framework targeting Taliban officials involved in oppressing women and undermining governance in Afghanistan. The measures include travel bans, arms embargoes, and prohibitions on dealings with assets, reflecting ongoing international concern over restrictions on women's rights since 2021.
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Reddit has filed a legal challenge in the High Court against Australia's new law requiring social media platforms to restrict users under 16. The company argues the law infringes on free political communication and is improperly applied, despite plans to comply. The case follows similar challenges from other platforms and government enforcement efforts.