Independent Australian news and analysis across politics, business, technology, world affairs and culture
Features, explainers and long-form stories from across Australia.
You see her name in the news whenever the Reserve Bank adjusts interest rates, but behind the headlines is a career central banker who spent nearly four decades inside the institution she now leads. Michele Bullock became the first woman to govern the RBA in September 2023, succeeding Philip Lowe. This article separates the confirmed … Read more
You’ve probably heard that Everest is the world’s tallest mountain, but challenge isn’t just about altitude. Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak at 3,724 meters, has a reputation among climbers for being technically demanding in ways that can rival the Himalayan giant. This guide compares both mountains on objective hazards, required skills, and … Read more
There’s a reason tape measures still hang from tool belts more than 190 years after James Chesterman first patented the design in Sheffield, England (Johnson Level, precision tool manufacturer): nothing else gives you a precise, physical read of a length. But in 2026, your phone might be the next best thing — and knowing how … Read more
You’ve probably seen John 3:16 on a stadium placard or stumbled across Philippians 4:13 in a social media bio. That’s no accident — John 3:16 is the most searched Bible verse worldwide, according to Faith Radio (a Christian broadcasting network). This guide digs into the verses people turn to most, from beautiful love passages to … Read more
If you’ve tried hosting drinks at a standard table with stools that feel too low, you already understand the appeal of a bar table. These taller surfaces—typically 40 to 42 inches high—are changing how we use small spaces for entertaining and casual dining. Standard bar table height: 40–42 inches (102–107 cm) · Counter height table … Read more
Bob Geldof sparks a mix of reactions — music fans remember the Boomtown Rats, charity supporters recall Band Aid and Live Aid, and tabloid readers followed the tragic story of his marriage to Paula Yates. This article separates the verified facts from the rumors, covering his career, wealth, family, and the decisions that still generate … Read more
You’ve probably seen the name Freida McFadden on a bestseller list and wondered who’s behind those twisty psychological thrillers. The answer is more surprising than most readers expect: she’s a practicing brain injury specialist who writes under a pseudonym, and her breakout novel The Housemaid has sold over 2 million copies. Pen name of: Sara … Read more
Few celebrities navigate the spotlight quite like Jennifer Lopez. In the past year, her personal life has been as public as any script — from a health scare during AMAs rehearsals to the end of her second marriage to Ben Affleck. Here’s a fact-anchored look at what we actually know about her current chapter. Children: … Read more
Few surfers charge into the elite ranks with the same momentum as Molly Picklum. At just 22, she clinched the 2025 WSL World Championship in a dramatic best-of-three final in Fiji, ending a three-year drought for Australian women’s surfing – and this article covers her career, earnings, and how she stacks up against the best … Read more
Graham Norton, the Irish comedian who has anchored Friday nights on the BBC since 2007, finds himself at the rare intersection of making global headlines for his wedding, his wine, and the mere possibility of his show ending — all in the same year. This article sorts the confirmed facts from the rumors, covering his … Read more