Judge slams Harvey Norman boss, orders $55m fines over misleading ads – 28 July 2026
Harvey Norman has been ordered to pay a $35 million penalty after the Federal Court found it misled customers through advertising promoting a “60-month interest-free, no deposit” payment offer. The court found the ads failed to clearly disclose that customers were required to apply for a Latitude credit card and could incur account and establishment fees. Judge Michael O’Bryan criticised Harvey Norman’s approach and said a higher penalty was needed to encourage stronger compliance. Latitude Financial was also fined $20 million, with both companies ordered to publish corrective advertising.
Family embroiled in decades-old IVF mix-up files lawsuit against Sydney hospital – 29 July 2026
A lawsuit has been launched over a decades-old IVF mix-up after a woman discovered through DNA testing that she and her twin sister were born from embryos belonging to another family. The mistake, which occurred during IVF treatment in the 1990s, went unnoticed for about 30 years until genealogy testing revealed the biological family connection. The families are now seeking legal action to understand how the error occurred and who was responsible. The case raises significant questions about IVF regulation, record keeping and the lifelong impact of fertility treatment errors.
Darwin public servant charged with multi-million-dollar fraud of NDIS – 29 July 2026
A Northern Territory public servant, Genevine Ifunanya Ebelebe, has been charged over an alleged NDIS fraud scheme. The AFP alleges she used her position to refer vulnerable clients to an NDIS provider linked to her family, which received millions in funding. She faces charges including corruption, misuse of information and obtaining financial benefits dishonestly. The matter is before the Darwin Local Court.
Man allegedly at ‘apex’ of interstate drug ring denied bail after police access group chats – 29 July 2026
Police have dismantled an alleged interstate drug trafficking network linked to the supply of methamphetamine into Darwin. A joint operation involving NT Police, AFP, Australian Border Force and interstate agencies led to multiple arrests, significant drug seizures and charges against two Darwin residents accused of acting as local suppliers for the syndicate.
Banks charged mortgage holders $55m in extra interest after offset account errors, Asic finds – 29 July 2026
ASIC found Australian banks overcharged mortgage customers about $55 million in extra interest due to errors with home loan offset accounts. More than 200,000 loans were reviewed, with banks required to identify affected customers and provide compensation. ASIC criticised banks for poor systems and delays in fixing the issues.
Police chief resigns ahead of misconduct hearing – 29 July 2026
Former Staffordshire Police Chief Constable Chris Noble resigned just before a disciplinary hearing that subsequently found he had committed gross misconduct. Although reporting restrictions prevent the details of the misconduct from being published, the independent panel ruled that Noble would have been dismissed had he not resigned. He will now be placed on the national barred list, preventing him from working in policing or other law enforcement roles, with the case highlighting the importance of accountability and ethical standards at the highest levels of policing.
Elder-abuse advocates push for help, but views on criminalisation varied – 30 July 2026
Women with experience of elder abuse are speaking up in national forums to encourage others in similar situations to seek help. One advocate wants elder abuse to be made a national crime, but the sector says that does little to sever abusive behaviours. Peak body Elder Abuse Action Australia wants the conversation to shift to prevention and for government funding to be better allocated.
Cult survivors fearful after inquiry shares email addresses of those who made anonymous submissions – 30 July 2026
A Victorian parliamentary inquiry into harmful cults and high-control groups has apologised after an email accidentally exposed the identities of anonymous survivors and contributors by revealing their email addresses. The breach caused distress among survivors who feared their privacy and safety had been compromised. The inquiry is reviewing its processes, while its report recommends stronger protections and support for people affected by coercive groups.
Federal Labor MP Luke Gosling charged with assault of NT Administrator David Connolly – 30 July 2026
Federal Labor MP Luke Gosling has been charged with two counts of assault over an alleged incident involving Northern Territory Administrator David Connolly at a Darwin public event. Gosling denies the allegations and will contest the charges, with the matter listed for Darwin Local Court in September. The charges have prompted calls for him to step aside from his government roles while the case proceeds.
Chinese online shops sell Australian police uniforms amid warnings of impersonation scams – 31 July 2026
Australian police have raised concerns after an ABC investigation uncovered Chinese online retailers selling what appear to be authentic Australian police uniforms, caps, badges and insignia from police forces in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia, as well as Australian Border Force apparel. The items, marketed as genuine police equipment and sold for as little as $4, have prompted warnings that they could be used in impersonation scams or other criminal activity. Police agencies say they have strict controls over the issue and disposal of official uniforms and are working to investigate the listings.
Banks ignore serious evidence as businesses pay for erroneous chargebacks – 30 July 2026
Small businesses are warning that banks and payment providers are failing to properly investigate disputed card transactions, leaving businesses to cover the cost of wrongful chargebacks. The article highlights cases where customers allegedly claimed refunds for goods or services they received, with businesses losing money, products and additional fees. Owners argue the current system favours consumers and is too difficult and costly for small businesses to challenge, prompting calls for stronger protections and fairer dispute processes.
Michael Crosby, administrator for the CFMEU, speaks to 7.30 – 30 July 2026
The article examines the future of the CFMEU (Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union) following allegations of corruption, misconduct and criminal influence. It discusses whether the union can rebuild trust, with possible reforms including stronger oversight, changes to leadership and stricter regulation of the construction industry. The ongoing Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations of intimidation, improper conduct and links to criminal figures, while governments consider how to balance protecting workers’ rights with preventing misconduct.
Woman sues for pregnancy discrimination and wins in rare case – 31 July 2026
The article explores the case of Tania Duarte, who took legal action against her employer. The Federal Court found that her employer had breached obligations under the Fair Work Act 2009 by discriminating against her because of her pregnancy, breastfeeding and caring responsibilities, as well as because she exercised her workplace rights. The investigation highlights that while pregnancy discrimination is unlawful under Australian law, many women continue to report experiencing it.
