Big Tech News Payments: Australia plans tougher charges on big tech that don’t strike local news deals, with a 2.5% levy on qualifying digital ad revenue (starting for firms over A$250m) and offsets only via commercial agreements with publishers. Housing & Cost of Living: Home values fell again in July, with the biggest monthly drop in almost four years, as Sydney and Melbourne led declines and the downturn widens. Energy Policy: A $100m “missing middle” program will back small hybrid solar-and-battery projects (up to 5MW) with concessional loans, aiming to speed grid-connected renewables. Fuel Prices: Fuel excise relief ends, with motorists warned petrol costs may rise first in major cities as discounts unwind. ASX & Markets: The ASX rebounded late, but iron ore slid to a one-year low, dragging miners and keeping investors focused on earnings. Superannuation/Banking Pressure: HSBC is set to sell a $25b Australian home and personal loan portfolio to Blackstone, signalling further retreat from retail banking. Workplace Compliance: The ATO and Fair Work Ombudsman launch “Operation Flint” targeting labour hire in agriculture, including horticulture, over wage and tax/super non-compliance. Mining & Resources: Horizon Gold returned high-grade intersections at WA’s Gum Creek project, while Fortescue is reportedly exploring Pilbara AI data centres powered by its renewables network. Critical Minerals Recycling: Australia considers a national ban on dumping end-of-life solar panels as a parliamentary inquiry weighs how to scale recycling and recover valuable materials.