Australia’s aid budget is steady but, globally the trend is downward. Our aid strategy must shift quickly—facing global cuts and the impact of artificial intelligence, bold, focused decisions that prioritise and simplify are needed.

This article asserts that if the Houthis had managed to shoot down the F-35, it would have been more of an indicator of the shortcomings of the military operation, rather than the aircraft itself.

Not belonging isn’t a flaw, it’s a different psychological orientation. From the moment we are born, we are wired for connection, but standing apart can be a form of integrity—not isolation.

The US Navy needs sixth-generation fighters now; and strong concerns have been expressed that any hesitancy to proceed with the planned procurement of the jets will leave the Navy dangerously outmatched in a China fight.

Indonesia’s BRICS (Brazil, Rusia, India, China, South Africa) alignment signals a broader global shift. Australia’s waning influence in Indonesia demands urgent, targeted engagement. AUKUS created long-term unease in Indonesia. Defence and diplomacy must work in tandem.

As the US demands more tangible commitments from allies, striking resource-based partnerships may strengthen international alliances—providing shared economic interests that could sustain support during difficult periods. Philippines Reed Bank holds significant oil and gas reserves.

The sanctions are being lifted in good will, but skepticism remains regarding al-Sharaa’s past links to al-Qaeda and communal massacres against minority groups that have taken place since he came to power.

An overlooked unit of Australian naval reservists proved vital in a failed campaign—solving critical logistical problems under fire and enabling a smooth retreat against all odds. Instrumental in getting water supplies ashore and building wharves.

Breathing fresh life into a legacy platform, a redesigned Super Lightning II would feature an enlarged fuselage, extended wingspan and increased internal volume to carry more fuel and weapons—resulting in greater range and payload.

AI tools are increasingly trained to flatter users—undermining truth, reinforcing bias, and raising serious risks in mental health, information trust, and responsible technology use. Financial incentives for companies may worsen the problem.