AU Edition - Today's top story: How would One Nation's immigration plan affect the labour market and economy? September 16, 2026 AU Edition   One Nation this week said it wants to reduce the number of temporary migrants in Australia by more than 760,000 over three years – and the reaction from business and employer groups was swift. The Business Council of Australia warned the plan “risks holding back economic growth”, while the Australian Industry Group said it “risks severe economic self harm at a time when we are already bedevilled by significant labour and skills shortages.” Why? Today, Professor Ly Tran, who researches international students and international graduate employability, unpacks what’s been proposed – and how cutting the number of international students and graduates living in Australia may affect Australia’s labour market and broader economy.   Sunanda Creagh Senior Editor       How would One Nation’s immigration plan affect the labour market and economy? Ly Tran, Deakin University Reducing the number of people on student and graduate visas may reduce migration numbers, but it could also weaken demand for Australian goods and services. More than 2 million Indigenous people lived in Australia in 1788: new research Corey J. A. Bradshaw, Flinders University; Alan N Williams, James Cook University; Lynette Russell, Monash University; Sean Ulm, James Cook University; Shane Ingrey, UNSW Genetic, archaeological and environmental evidence suggest the Indigenous population fell by more than 90% in the 70 years after the British invaded. Why Sydney Sweeney’s controversial advert goes beyond sexualising women’s sport Vivienne Lewis, University of Canberra The discussion surrounding the American actor’s ad raises bigger questions about the attention placed on women’s bodies, not just in sport. Hanson ‘regrets’ hurt caused by remark about ‘primitive’ First Nations people Michelle Grattan, University of Canberra After facing a barrage of criticism for her comments, the One Nation leader says it was not her intention to cause hurt. Bluster and betrayal: Paul Barry probes how steel tycoon Sanjeev Gupta hoodwinked the powerful Denis Muller, The University of Melbourne Amid news that 500 jobs will go at the Whyalla steelworks, once owned by Gupta’s GFG Alliance, The Big Steal is a powerful – and timely – work of journalism. Bird flu has claimed its first Australian sea lion and dolphin. How does the virus get into these animals? Bill Bateman, Curtin University How does a dolphin or seal even get bird flu? Most likely through contact with sick birds – or eating their carcasses. Australia’s data centre build-out carries risks for the economy – and inflation Jak Kakhkharov, Australian Catholic University The rush to build data centres brings investment and the promise of a sophisticated digital economy. But it also creates new pressure on housing and skilled workers. Incorporation law gave Big Tech state-like power. Can it now help rein it in? Susan Watson, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Governments can curb corporate power. But first we need to understand how corporate law allows private ventures to accumulate power that can endure for generations. Is pasta a type of noodle? The surprisingly serious debate over two beloved carbs Dianne Ma, Auckland University of Technology Like many food debates, this one is tangled up in culture, history and power. Politics + Society AFP commissioner urges ‘conversation’ about link between Australians’ level of illicit drug use and organised crime Michelle Grattan, University of Canberra Krissy Barrett’s call comes after recent murders in Sydney linked to organised crime included two cases of mistaken identity in one week. How does unthinkable policy become inevitable? The ‘Overton window’ is one possible answer Joshua Black, University of Canberra It was once deemed crazy to get rid of protective tariffs. Privatising state banks was inconceivable. Both are now commonplace, but how does this happen? Coalition retains clear lead in Victorian Resolve poll, while federal polls are mixed Adrian Beaumont, The University of Melbourne Labor is likely to lose the Victorian election, but it’s unclear whether the Coalition will be able to govern in majority or need support from One Nation. Poorly fitting sports bras are forcing some women and girls away from sport – new research Deirdre McGhee, University of Wollongong; Clare Hanlon, Victoria University; Dr Elliott Flowers, Victoria University Most decision-makers in sport think girls and women would benefit from learning about sports bra design, fit and support. Less than 1% offer this education. Health + Medicine How does the menopause drug Veoza work? And how is it different to hormone therapy? Robyn Brown, The University of Melbourne; Leigh Walker, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health Some women can’t take hormone replacement therapy to alleviate hot flashes and night sweats. This medication is one alternative. Environment + Energy Our new research shows humans have maligned bandicoots for decades, making them more vulnerable to extinction Annabel Ellis, University of Sydney; Dieter Hochuli, University of Sydney; Peter Banks, University of Sydney Humans have had a complex relationship with this marsupial, known for its pointy snout, thin tail and large hind feet. Science + Technology Was there really a female king in ancient Egypt 5,000 years ago? New study says yes Susan Kelly, Macquarie University Meretneith was buried in a tomb fit for a male ruler. But for decades, debate has raged over her true royal status. Arts + Culture 175 years of university architecture reflects Australian history. We shouldn’t let that history be lost Hannah Lewi, The University of Melbourne; Cameron Logan, University of Sydney University campuses reflect the layers of architectural and landscape styles that have shaped our cities and suburbs. David Hockney: Portraits in Print reveals lesser-known aspects of the celebrated artist Alex Burchmore, Australian National University The National Gallery of Australia exhibition showcases the late British artist’s mastery of intimate detail and talent for connection. Your Say Regarding your article ‘Five years into AUKUS, what do we have to show for it? We’ve measured progress on three key metrics’, the projected public cost of AUKUS could, in my view, be far better directed towards reducing poverty in Australia, yet our elected representatives have committed to acquiring nuclear-powered, conventionally armed submarines at enormous cost. During COVID, welfare payments were substantially increased so people could better afford essentials, but those increases did not last. It is evident to me that our political parties are not sufficiently serving the people, leaving me to question whether greater use of referendums could provide a truer democracy based more directly on the will of the majority rather than the influence of lobbyists. — Steve Bentley Camira QLD Read the article Yesterday’s article ‘1 in 3 uni students experience serious financial hardship. Could concession cards for all help?’ prompted two thoughts: first, there is no right to a university education. It’s a choice like many others in life and one to be made taking account of the realities of living it. Second, the article says the objective is to raise tertiary qualifications from 60% to 80%. I’m wondering how such a goal benefits our society. There are significant employment needs currently in childcare, aged care, agriculture (i.e. harvesting the food), logistics, transport and construction. I don’t know that any of those necessarily require tertiary qualifications, particularly university qualifications. — Joanne Blackburn Read the article   We'd love to hear from you. Each day we publish an edited selection of your views on our stories. Email us     Featured Events, Courses & Jobs View all Brisbane Writers Festival 8 - 11 October 2026 • New Farm Canberra Writers Festival 15 - 18 October 2026 • Advanced Project Management Course 21 - 28 October 2026 • Sydney Launches in the Library: Language and Gesture 30 September 2026 • Bundoora Promote your event or course   Contact us