Australian environment and water minister, ALP senator for Queensland
Pauline Hanson has declared Australia cannot be multicultural and must be monocultural, warning migration is driving up housing costs and eroding national identity. Her National Press Club address has intensified debate over immigration, with supporters praising a tough stance and opponents warning of risks to social cohesion.
New Zealand has confirmed its first mainland detection of H5 bird flu after a brown skua found on Petone beach has tested positive. Authorities have said there is no evidence of mass mortality or poultry infection, but surveillance and a targeted vaccination programme for endangered captive birds have been activated as officials monitor wild populations.