Breaking · Australia
One Nation takes Secret Harbour
Luke Herdegen is One Nation’s first Western Australian lower-house MP after the 29 August 2026 by-election. Labor’s Georgia Tree conceded on 30 August.
Bel McRae · 30 Aug 2026
Australia correspondent
Bel McRae
Australia desk
Bel McRae is The Standard's Australia correspondent. McRae covers Canberra, the states, energy and the border.
Australia
Commonwealth names six groups for Sydney to Newcastle rail
Six consortiums were shortlisted on 24 August for early work on trains and the first tunnels. Planning money is $230 million until 2028. Construction is still listed for 2029.
Bel McRae · 30 Aug 2026
Australia
Midland’s new private hospital opened on Thursday
St John of God Midland Private Hospital opened 27 August 2026. 123 beds in the old railway workshops. Sixty public beds come back with the move.
Bel McRae · 30 Aug 2026
Australia
One Nation previews coal and gas policy at Marnoo
One Nation previewed coal, gas and a VicGrid strip for VNI West at a Farmers Fightback rally. The formal launch is Monday at Yallourn.
Bel McRae · 30 Aug 2026