Australia witnessed a dynamic news cycle between May 24 and 25, 2025, with major developments across politics, the economy, culture, and emergency response. From political upheavals in Canberra to a devastating flood crisis in New South Wales, the nation’s headlines reflect a country grappling with both opportunity and challenge. This 24-hour snapshot offers readers a clear, curated view of the 12 most significant Australian news stories—all from distinct and reliable sources.
In federal politics, the long-standing coalition between the Nationals and Liberals fractured publicly, as Nationals leader David Littleproud announced a split over key policy disagreements, especially around nuclear energy and regional economic autonomy. This seismic political moment was further punctuated by former Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s powerful warning about the global rise of autocracy, calling on democracies like Australia to invest in civic education and democratic resilience.
Economically, the Reserve Bank of Australia made headlines by cutting the official cash rate to 3.85%—the lowest in two years—in a strategic move to stimulate domestic growth amid global uncertainty. Meanwhile, debate intensified over Labor’s controversial superannuation tax reform, and Melbourne and Sydney were celebrated globally after ranking among the world’s top 10 cities in a prestigious urban index.
The cultural sphere was equally tense, as Creative Australia’s chair stepped down amid backlash surrounding the Venice Biennale selection controversy. In Queensland, the LNP government faced criticism for initiating a so-called “culture war,” while National Reconciliation Week kicked off nationwide, emphasizing healing and unity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
On the environmental front, devastating floods in NSW killed five people and damaged over 10,000 properties, prompting widespread emergency action and national mourning. The Australian Defence Force launched helicopter missions to deliver food and supplies to isolated farmers, highlighting both the severity of the climate-driven disaster and the country’s capacity to respond.
Whether you’re tracking political realignments, economic shifts, or the human cost of natural disasters, these 12 reports distill the most important Australian news from a single 24-hour period—offering insight, clarity, and reliable sources for deeper reading.
🗳️ Politics
1. Nationals Split from Coalition over Policy Disputes
Nationals leader David Littleproud confirmed his party’s split from the Liberal Party due to policy disagreements, especially over nuclear energy and supermarket regulation. The move is reshaping the Australian conservative landscape and could impact the next federal election. Some Liberals fear long-term damage, while others welcome the clarity.
👉 Read more on BBC
2. Julia Gillard Warns of Global Rise in Autocracy
Former Prime Minister Julia Gillard warned of increasing global autocracy in a keynote speech at the Sorrento Writers Festival. She emphasized the role of education, democratic participation, and civic resilience in pushing back against authoritarian trends. Her speech comes amid growing concerns about democratic backsliding in various countries.
👉 Read more on The Saturday Paper
3. Jim Chalmers Blasts Coalition as “Smoking Ruin”
Treasurer Jim Chalmers called the federal Coalition “a smoking ruin” and accused the opposition of policy confusion and internal conflict. He argued that the Labor government is better positioned to manage economic recovery and long-term investment. His remarks reflect an escalating political clash as Parliament returns.
👉 Read more on ABC News
💰 Economy
4. RBA Cuts Interest Rate to 3.85%
The Reserve Bank of Australia has cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85%, its lowest in two years. The decision comes in response to slowing inflation and weak global growth signals. The RBA indicated that more cuts are possible if economic conditions worsen.
👉 Read more on Reuters
5. Labor’s Super Tax Plan Faces Backlash
Labor’s plan to tax superannuation balances over $3 million has drawn fire from economists and retirees alike. Critics say taxing unrealised gains is problematic, while Labor defends it as a fairness measure targeting only the wealthiest. The plan is now a flashpoint in ongoing tax reform debates.
👉 Read more on The Guardian
6. Melbourne and Sydney Among World’s Top Cities
Melbourne and Sydney were named among the world’s top ten cities in the 2025 Global Cities Index. Melbourne ranked sixth for innovation and education, while Sydney came in seventh, recognized for finance and international connectivity. Both cities, however, lag on housing affordability.
🎭 Culture
7. Creative Australia Chair Resigns Over Biennale Controversy
Robert Morgan, chair of Creative Australia, has stepped down after backlash over the withdrawal of artist Khaled Sabsabi from the 2026 Venice Biennale. His resignation highlights growing tensions over artistic freedom and representation within national arts institutions.
👉 Read more on The Art Newspaper
8. Queensland LNP Accused of Fueling ‘Culture Wars’
The Queensland Liberal National Party is under scrutiny for decisions seen as politically divisive, including cutting Indigenous arts funding and halting green energy initiatives. Critics accuse the party of prioritizing ideological agendas over inclusivity.
👉 Read more on The Guardian
9. Reconciliation Week 2025 Launches Nationwide
Reconciliation Week began with events across Australia under the theme “Bridging Now to Next.” The campaign promotes understanding and justice for Indigenous Australians. Organizers urge citizens to reflect on historical injustices and act toward reconciliation.
👉 Read more on ABC News
🌧️ Environment & Society
10. NSW Floods Kill Five, Damage 10,000 Properties
Catastrophic floods in New South Wales have claimed five lives and damaged over 10,000 properties. Emergency teams are conducting rescues and cleanup. Experts say this “once in 500 years” event is part of a growing climate crisis.
👉 Read more on The Guardian
11. Helicopters Deliver Aid to Stranded Farmers
Helicopters have delivered emergency food and fodder to farmers cut off by floodwaters in rural New South Wales. Thousands remain isolated. The effort is part of a coordinated federal response to the climate emergency.
👉 Read more on Reuters
12. Stabbing at Melbourne Mall Sparks Panic
Northland Shopping Centre in Melbourne went into lockdown after a violent stabbing involving up to 10 people. One man was seriously injured, and two suspects were arrested. The incident prompted a large police response and renewed safety concerns.
👉 Read more on Sky News
